Registered walkers can enjoy “Fun, Sun, Sand” while supporting rescue dogs and visiting vendor booths
VENTURA — Get ready to bring your best four-legged friends to the 24th Annual Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) Pooch Parade. This year’s theme, “Fun, Sun, Sand, and Supporting Rescue Dogs!”, invites registered walkers to walk with their dogs individually or as part of a walk team while wearing beach attire at Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura (grassy area) on Sunday, August 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The lead sponsor for the Pooch Parade is Cumulus Media (owner of KBBY-FM, KHAY-FM, KRUZ-FM and KVYB-FM), who will be at the event. Additional sponsors are Ohana Pet Hospital, Ojai Valley Directory, Savory Prime Pet Treats, VMSG, Local 721 SEIU, Teresa Gruber, CPA, California State University Channel Islands Biology Department and C.A.R.L. Pet Care Center. Professional announcer Ken Vela will serve as emcee, play a variety of music and announce the Parade and contests, including “Best Costume” and “Biggest Ears.”
“Once again, we are thrilled to welcome participants, vendors and guests to this year’s Pooch Parade,” said C.A.R.L. Board President Grace Cunningham. “It’s always heartwarming to see so many organizations and dog lovers come out on a weekend afternoon and support our organization’s mission.”
Nearly 20 vendors from Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles Counties will host vendor booths at the Parade. A sampling includes Sailor & Friends Pet Supply, Search Dog Foundation, Dogtown VTA, Damsel in Defense, All for Love Animal Rescue and California State University Channel Islands. Dog agility demonstrations and dog adoptions of C.A.R.L. dogs will also be on site.
“Whether you want to walk your dogs in the Parade, visit vendor booths or hang out near the Harbor with family and friends, the Pooch Parade offers something for everyone,” said Sharon Clark, executive director.
Admission is free, and the cost to participate in the Parade, which starts around 11 a.m., is $45, and participants can register on the event day at the registration booth. Parade teams must consist of at least 4 adult participants. Individuals and teams who raise the highest amount will receive a special prize. For questions about registering, contact Sheila Hernandez at carlvolunteer@gmail.com
Parade participants will receive a complimentary event T-shirt featuring this year’s Pooch Parade logo on the front of the shirt and sponsors’ names on the back. Proceeds from the Parade will go to the feeding and medical care of our adoptable dogs at the C.A.R.L. Pet Care Center and the paid staff who care for them in Santa Paula.
About C.A.R.L. — Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit all breed, no-kill dog rescue and adoption organization. Since 1996, C.A.R.L. has rescued and placed thousands of unwanted, sick, abandoned and homeless dogs. Dogs in our adoption program are placed in pre-screened, loving and secure homes. We make a lifetime commitment to all of our dogs.