Howling for a good cause

Mark your calendars for this year’s third annual Howl at the Moon event at the Westlake Recreation Center. On Monday, June 17, at 7:00 p.m., dogs and their families are invited to enjoy an evening of fun, play and delicious treats! All monetary proceeds from this year’s walk will benefit the Westlake Police K-9 unit.

The Westlake Police K-9 has been serving the city of Westlake for over 19 years. In that time, the unit has responded to hundreds of calls assisting the force in searches and protecting the community. Some of their duties have included school visits, foot patrols at Crocker Park and policing community events.

Currently, there are three dogs serving on the police force: Ricker, Echo and Max. In 2018 this brave unit responded to 34 calls that resulted in arrests or citable offenses. The donations collected at the event will be used to provide bulletproof vests to protect our K-9s.

In addition to supporting the K-9 unit, donations will be collected to help the volunteers of City Dogs Cleveland and the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter. Some furry friends and volunteers are looking forward to attending the event to share some treats and information about what they do and how you may be able to help in finding a permanent home for one of these adorable pups! These puppies are in need of food, treats, bedding and equipment, such as leashes, collars and bowls. If you are unable to attend the event but would like to help out, a donation box will be located in the Westlake Recreation Center lobby.

This year several local vendors will be helping out to make the evening extra fun. You and your pup can test your skills on the military-style agility course or cool off from the summer sun with some delicious ice cream. The event is brought to a close with a “pack walk” around the Recreation Center grounds.

For more information or to register for the event, please visit the Westlake Recreation Center, 28955 Hilliard Blvd. Registrations will also be accepted on the day of the event.