YHS Walk for the Animals will save many lives

Ed Boks thanking the 455 walkers
who helped raise over $41,000!

The 2nd annual Yavapai Humane Society Walk for the Animals was a huge success. The event this past Saturday at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University was attended by over 450 registered walkers; many of whom brought their dogs, family, friends and neighbors. That's 133 more registered walkers than last year.

I want to thank all the walkers and their respective supporters, and our many sponsors for helping the Yavapai Humane Society exceed this year's $40,000 goal. Together we raised $41,550; which is a 53 percent increase over last year's $27,000. This money will help fund the many life saving programs of the Yavapai Humane Society (YHS).

In many ways, the YHS Walk for the Animals is a celebration of our community's love for our companion animals. In recent years the quad-city region has been recognized as one of the three safest communities in the United States for pets; and this is evidenced by the generous community support YHS receives.

In addition to our wonderful walkers, this year's Walk was also supported by our sponsors, for whom we are very thankful. Together we made this amazing community celebration not only possible, but a colossal hit.

When looking for products or services please consider YHS sponsors and join us in thanking them for helping our community's neediest animals.

We anticipate this annual celebration to grow in both scope and participation each year. This year the Walk expanded to include an elevated stage with a powerful sound system enabling everyone to hear the sweet tones and tunes of Robin Mills and the Bittersweet Band as they serenaded the walkers into the homestretch. (Robin is the lead veterinary technician at the YHS Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic.)

A massage booth was available for walkers needing to loosen up before or after the Walk; and walkers received a continental breakfast with coffee, homemade muffins,  fresh fruit, smoothies, and bottled water provided by our many sponsors.  The YHS Spay/Neuter & Wellness veterinarian, Dr. Jenni Redmon, and her staff provided microchips and spay/neuter advice.

YHS is the largest animal rescue organization in northern Arizona, saving nearly 4,000 lost and homeless pets every year. Thanks to the support of our community we are maintaining an impressive 97 percent Live Release Rate.

If you intended to make a donation in this year's Walk for the Animals but neglected to do so, you can still join the celebration by making your donation today at www.yavapaihumane.org/walk.

Ed Boks is the executive director of the Yavapai Humane Society. He can be reached at eboks@yavapaihumane.org or by calling 445-2666, ext. 21.