There may have been rain in the walk, but there was spirit in the wag when more than 600 dogs, 2,000 walkers, and the Humane Society of Huron Valley converged Saturday on County Farm Park for the 31st annual Walk & Wag.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., a stream of pets in their best gear came up the pathway to enjoy the HSHV’s largest fundraiser (more than $70,000 expected in the final total donations count.)

This year dogs checked in next to bags stuffed to the top with treats, while many local and independent businesses lined the walkway with more water bowls and games. Old friends of the HSHV, Ann Arbor’s 107.1, provided upbeat music; Karnik Pet Lodge drew a crowd of two-legged visitors with its Wheel of Prizes; and the St. Francis school brought its bake sale treats.

Newer friends appeared as well. Friends of the Canton Dog Park created the first canine agility course for participants, and Doghouse pet boarding introduced itself. I watched my own terrier exultantly bounding between the bazaar of bowsers and booths, despite his being confused as to why there were traces of countless dogs in my perfume. Massaging upwards of 40 wet and muddy dogs as a sponsor leaves you drenched in slobber!

The HSHV also had its own pet games: “bobbing” for weenies and finding the “treat in the haystack” (which also served as a great place to leg lift for the furry friends). In addition to the traditional games, the Kiss-a-bull Kissing Booth, was created to bring awareness to pitbull adoption and give further information on HSHV’s commitment to the breed.

Eventually, the sun came out, and so did the stars. This year’s Walk and Wag spokesdog, Harley the beagle, made his stage debut, as did the Classic K-9 team’s agility course entertainment. Dogs satisfied by their Busch’s donated hot dogs, sat contented on the grass watching dogs race through the courses to the applause of the crowd.

By the time the day had ended, the tongues were hanging out of mouths, but the tails were still wagging. HSHV marketing director Deb Kern said, “the highlight of the Walk and Wag is the return of the alumni. You see the little blue bandanas, you see them with their owners, and that’s really rewarding.” From the looks of the faces on the pets and their pet parents, they agreed.

Allison Magdalena Zenaida resides in Ann Arbor with her dog Dartie. She writes of their exploits on The Versed Gypsy, when she is not out pet-sitting for her business, The Joyful Dog. She would love for you to email her!