It was a beautiful, sunny May morning… not too hot, not too cool. Perfect weather for walking your dog! Nearly 140 walkers/runners and their dogs descended on Hudson Mills Metropark in Dexter for the 4^th Annual Bark 4 Life event.

The Ann Arbor Animal Hospital sponsored a team, affectionately named “Muddy Paws”, and had a booth to support the event. Our team of 10 runners/walkers included doctors, staff and some of their family members…and, of course, their dogs!

The event raised nearly $16,000 for the American Cancer Society and was attended by a number of cancer survivors, including the owner of the Animal Hospital, Dr. Linda Griebe, pictured above with her new puppy, “Serena”.

In addition to the 5k Run/Walk along the pathway through the park, there were events throughout the morning for participants and their dogs. Games and contest included: Best Dressed Dog, Best Bark Team Spirit, Look Alike (Dog and Handler), Best Trick, Best Howl, and the author’s favorite, Musical Sits, where dogs and their owners paraded around in a circle while music played and the last one to sit when the music stopped was out. What fun!

Dogs also had an opportunity to run an Agility Course, do Lure Chasing, run the Doggie Dash, or Paint a Picture, among other activities.

Besides the money that was raised and the fun, I think the best part

At right, Dr Morgan Peterman (L) with dog “Josie” and Kristen Wilson (R), our Team Captain with dog “Chasity”.

of the day was seeing dog owners interacting with each other, greeting each other’s dogs, commenting on how cute ( or big, or small, or fluffy…) they were, and generally just enjoying each other’s company.

Truly, a good time was had by all and our four-footed friends helped raise money for the American Cancer Society!!