Martensville’s 11th annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides put on by the Martensville & District Lions Club and the Saskatoon Lions club was held on Sunday, May 25th. A total of 34 dogs, 8 service dogs and many people came out to support the event.
The walk started at Lions Park, where participants registered and met other walkers as well as some of the dog guides participating in the walk.
Around 2pm, participants began the journey from Lions Park to Kinsmen Park, with a stop at Cones Ice Cream where the dogs received free pup cups provided by Wag Dog Daycare & Boarding Centre. Hydration stations were available to keep the dogs hydrated.
Participants then returned to Lions Park where they had a BBQ, various door prizes, raffle prizes, and treat bags for the dogs to take home. All funds raised will go towards helping local families receive a dog guide free of charge. The event raised $26,750, according to Maria Fowler of the Martensville & District Lions Club.
This year’s walk held particular significance due to the passing of Doug Ward, a former member of the Lions Club, on the morning of the event. Ward had been deeply committed to the Lions Club for many years, and as a dog owner himself, he found this event especially meaningful.
“Our community of Martensville stepped up to the plate to honor Doug in this walk. This was a ‘Walk for Doug,’” said Fowler.
As the event continues in the future, participants will carry forward the spirit of ‘Walk with Doug,’ ensuring that his commitment to the Lions Club and passion for dog guides remains an enduring inspiration.
