MIDDLEBURY – Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society, is gearing up for its annual Walk for the Animals, affectionately called “Woofstock.” The walk takes place on Saturday, Sept. 14, in Middlebury and is the shelter’s only annual, large-scale fundraiser.
Last year, Woofstock drew just over 100 dogs and 150 walkers. This year, thanks to the UVM Health Network/Porter Medical Center community, there will be many new faces at the Walk. There are currently over 80 Porter staff and family members signed up to participate.
“We are blown away at the enthusiasm of the Porter employees for this year’s Walk, says Homeward Bound Development Director Hannah Manley. “They are a fun, animal-loving group and we are honored to have their participation. We think it’s only fitting that Porter’s new President, Seleem Choudhury, lead the walk, alongside employees Suzanne Peterson and Sue Spitzner, who are responsible for rallying Porter’s participation.
Registration for the walk starts at 10:30 a.m. at the Memorial Sports Center in Middlebury. Participants can try samples of Aqua ViTea/ Kombucha, receive advice from local dog trainers, and show off their best Woodstock attire. Their canine companions can look forward to complimentary doggie ice cream from Lu Lu of Vergennes.
The 1-mile walk begins at 11:30 a.m. Socialized dogs are invited and encouraged to participate.  The event will culminate at the town pool with music, prizes, the A&W food cart, and the now well-known pool party just for dogs.
The registration fee is $20 for adults and $10 for youth. There is no fee for children 5 and under. Individuals can pre-register online or at the event. All walkers raising at least $50 will receive a special edition Woofstock t-shirt and all participating dogs will receive a bandana. For more information or to register, visit firstgiving.com/homewardboundanimals/2019-woofstock.