PAALS (Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services) and the Heartworm Project are once again teaming up for the third annual dog walk and reunion. This event will Saturday, November 7, 2009, from 11 am to 3 pm at Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Road in Columbia, SC.

This year the dog walk has expanded, and the decision was made that a big name was needed to match the big fun. POOCHAPALOOZA was the perfect fit.The day consists of a one–mile dog walk styled poker run with the chance to win fabulous prizes. A dog and his human walk a preset course stopping at each of the five sponsor checkpoints to receive a playing card. The best poker paw wins.There will also be an auction and dog show starring your pooch with lunch and goodie bag included. Families are welcome, and if you prefer not to bring your own pooch, you can Rent–a–Rescue Rover at the park for a nominal donation!

The goal of PAALS and The Heartworm Project for hosting these events is to educate and enlighten the community about their missions, goals, and the unique services provided as well as communicate the variety needs these nonprofits face and can fulfill. The various costs incurred to raise, train, house, transport, and lend service dogs for adults and children with physical disabilities and special needs are as vast as are the costs of saving strays that have treatable medical conditions from being euthanized.

“We’re so excited and grateful to be partnering this year with another worthy cause, The Heartworm Project. Both of our groups provide invaluable services in our community and are able to join forces with the help of our sponsors and our volunteers. The word really needs to get out about the differences our loving service dogs have made in the lives of the disabled, as well as the number of pets that have been saved by The Heartworm Project,” said Jen Rogers, founder and executive director of PAALS.

Ticket Prices: $20 per human/dog team includes one poker hand, tote bag, and lunch; $40 includes registration for the entire family; $5 donation to Rent– A–Rescue Rover.

Purchase Locations: www.poochapalooza. net

“There isn’t a gift too small or too big, sort of like our wonderful service dogs, that could really make a difference to our organization and everyone it touches. We’ve kept our sponsorship levels low so anyone can make a contribution, be it a monetary gift or volunteering hours,” said Sandra Gaines, president of PAALS Board of Directors.

Sponsorship Levels:

$250 for poker table Prizes for best hands and most money raised