GRIFFINS GO TO THE DOGS

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Grand Rapids Griffins will host their inaugural “Pups and Pucks” Fall Walk-a-Thon next Monday, Oct. 13 at Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary in Lake Odessa, Mich.

Beginning at 5:45 p.m., Griffins players, coaches and front office staff will walk rescued dogs for pledges collected by members of the Grand Rapids Griffins Booster Club. All animal lovers are encouraged to attend, with or without a dog to walk, and enjoy the many activities going on, which begin at 5 p.m.:

• Live Music – Fans will enjoy music from the Hawks and Owls;
• BBQ – Provided by Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill between 4:30-8 p.m.;
• Hay Rides – From 5-8 p.m., enjoy a hay ride around Mackenzie’s property;
• Puppy Pumpkin Decorating – Create a puppy face using paint, pumpkins and other fun materials;
• K-9 Costume Contest – Best-dressed dog wins a prize;
• Pet Experts and Vendors – A variety of animal professionals and pet vendors will be available to share information about their services and answer questions about your pet needs;
• Auction – Silent and live auctions, featuring items ranging from spa packages and Bissel vacuums to a Detroit Lions signed football and a Detroit Red Wings jersey signed by the 2008 Stanley Cup Championship team;
• Caricature Artists – Get a caricature painted of you and your furry friend;
• Microchipping – From 5-7:30 p.m., have your dog microchipped for $20 with the “Home Again” anti-migration chip;
• Petting Zoo – Fans are welcome to enjoy a petting zoo presented by Farm Animals on the Go!

Fans wishing to participate in the walk-a-thon are encouraged, but not required, to collect pledges for the event. For those unable to collect pledges, or those just wanting to attend the event, there is a $10 entry fee per person. Children three and under are free.

Fans bringing a dog to walk must register their dog and present proof of healthcare and vaccinations. Early registration begins at 4:30 p.m., or fans can click here to download both the pledge collection and dog walk registrations forms.

The goal of the inaugural “Pups and Pucks” Fall Walk-a-Thon is to raise $15,000 to support the efforts of Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, the Midwest’s largest no-kill sanctuary dedicated to providing a “home along the way” for dogs in need.