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Dogtober supports SAFE program

Hatten Park in New London was a perfect setting for dogs and dog lovers, Saturday, Sept. 27, as they participated in the 2014 Dogtober Walk.

Wolf River Veterinarian Clinic hosts the annual event, and this year collected more than $5,000 for its Stray Animal Fund Endeavor (SAFE) program.

SAFE donations offset the cost of caring for stray animals that are sick or injured, need spaying, neutering and vaccinations. A final and integral part of the process is caring for strays prior to placement in a new home.

“This final step may take weeks. Meanwhile other strays come in to our facility,” said Toni Miller of Wolf River Veterinary Clinic. “We have 14 stray cats available for adoption at this time, and every one of them deserves love and affection. Many stray cats come from good homes, but for whatever reason, have not found their way back.”

While the veterinary clinic is not set up for stray animal operations, the staff does everything it can to support animal adoption.

The Dogtober event brings attention to this situation. This year’s event was attended by over 150 dog lovers and 100 canines. The brisk breeze of the day was hushed and lessened by the beautiful trees lining the 120-acre Hatten Park. The wooded trail that wraps around the northern end of the park is a perfect place to walk during the yearly event. With the fall colors above and around them, everyone experienced a sensational show, courtesy of Mother Nature.

Attendees enjoyed the music of A+ Disc Jockey, a donor each year. An agility course was set up and run by Candi Janke and Barb Schneider, demonstrating with their pets the consistency and concentration of these trained canines.

Thirty baskets of completely donated items were spread across the Hatten shelter for folks to bid on. Many were related to pet fun and exercise, while others offered free retail items or services through their business located within the community.

“Our SAFE program is funded by animal lovers who support a very noble cause,” Miller said. “We are fortunate that donations and volunteer efforts in this community help to offset the many demands placed on us with stray animals.”

Miller said that the SAFE program recently received its non-profit status, allowing donors of over $250 to use their donation as a tax write-off.

Wolf River Veterinary Clinic is located at 216 W. Wolf River Avenue in New London. Learn more about the clinic on their website wrvet.com. The clinic is open six days a week starting at 7:30 am.

If you are searching for your lost pet, call the clinic at 920-982-2733 or use petfinder.com.

If you need to turn in a stray, call the police station at 920-982-8505.

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