Aiken Steeplechase hosts second annual Dog Walk for Charity

AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - The second annual Dog Walk for Charity, hosted by Aiken Steeplechase, took place Sunday.

Proceeds went to Friends of the Animal Shelter.

It was more than a walk in the park for man’s best friend as more than 100 walkers, both two- and four-legged companions, went the extra mile in of FOTAS. Both physical donations such as dog food and monetary donations were raised.

It’s all to help the more than 4,000 animals the shelter takes in each year find their forever homes.

“We saw a lot of dogs that were here today that were shelter alumni,” said Jennifer Miller, FOTAS president.

She is talking dogs like Harrison, who belongs to Bill Gutfarb.

“He’s very sweet dog,” said Gutfarb. “I’ve never seen him get in a fight with anyone or bite anyone. He’s really a good, good companion.”

Harrison found his two-legged companion at the Aiken County Animal Shelter.

“The shelter is full right now,” said Miller. “We have 84 kennels and some are doubled up.”

The shelter receives more than 4,000 unwanted animals each year.

“The more that the community is involved with our animal shelter, the more we can find them homes and get them healthy. We couldn’t save all these animals without community ,” said Miller.

It’s the community walking the extra mile for more successful adoption stories.

“You’re giving the dog a home, and you’re also getting a companion,” said Gutfarb.

If you want to foster or volunteer with FOTAS, visit the group’s website to learn more.

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