Hounds & Heroes event to benefit SPCA of Niagara

A local event to honor servicemen and women and first responders is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 25, as the SPCA of Niagara hosts its annual "Hounds & Heroes" fundraiser at Reservoir State Park in Niagara Falls. 

"It's a tribute to our veterans and first responders and the people that keep us safe," said Polla Milligan, director of development and marketing at SPCA of Niagara.

The event is sponsored by M & T Bank and includes a hound hike, which features a 1.1-mile walking path at Reservoir State Park, a classic car and motorcycle show, a 50/50 raffle, apple pie eating contest, patriotic pet costume contests, food, activities and more. 

"It's all about the red, white and blue," Milligan said. "We encourage folks to dress themselves and their pets up for a wonderful day of fun." 

This is one of SPCA of Niagara's largest events of the year. Focused around family-friendly activities, kids can enjoy a sack race, a clothing relay contest, clowns, a fire prevention vehicle with Sparky the Fire Dog Robot, hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks.

The bike run begins at 8 a.m. and car registration starts at 10 a.m. with "Hound Hike" registration at 11 a.m. Winners of the contest will be announced at 1:30 p.m.

Guest speakers include state Sen. Robert Ortt, who will officiate the "Hound Hike." There will be a few vendors in attendance, as well as a 9/11 "Standing Tall" sculpture, a 7-foot stainless steel memorial with victim names.

Individual registration for the "Hound Hike" prior to the event is $15. The price increases to $20 the day of the event. Everyone who registers receives a goodie bag, a bandana for a pup, and a bottle of water. All proceeds from the event will benefit SPCA of Niagara.

For more information on "Hounds & Heroes," call 716-731-4368 or visit www.niagaraspca.org/houndsandheroes.html.