The La Jolla Loves Pets Foundation unleashed its third annual Mutt Strut May 11, inviting dozens of dogs and their humans to participate in a two-kilometer walk around The Village and “after party” at the Rec Center with several activities to celebrate furry friends.
The 2024 event went well, according to organizer Olga Wharton, who runs the nonprofit La Jolla Loves Pets, which also hosts events including Dog-O-Ween in October.
“We have learned so much from the previous events,” Wharton said, adding small adjustments to Mutt Strut like moving the red carpet to the basketball court and setting up more chairs has elevated the event and “made it much more enjoyable for people.”
Mutt Strut, which included snacks for dogs and humans, raffle prizes from local merchants and dogs for adoption, also featured an agility demonstration and doggie contests including “Cutest Dog,” “Most Talented” and “Best Dressed.”
The event raised nearly $7,000 (and still counting) for local pet rescue, Amazing Strays, and generated a lot of interest and applications for pet adoptions, Wharton said.
La Jolla Loves Pets is now training its eyes on the 2024 Dog-O-Ween, and the foundation is looking for volunteers.
“We need helpers,” Wharton said. “We definitely need people who are passionate about animals who would be interested in joining the board, joining committees [and] helping us prepare.”
To learn more, visit lajollalovespets.org.
