A Strut Your Mutt participant from a past year is seen. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE– UPAWS is preparing to host its Strut Your Mutt event, the 20th year the event has been held. It is a fundraiser and opportunity for the community to support UPAWS at one of the area’s biggest dog events. The event will take place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at Mattson Lower Harbor Park in Marquette.

“Join us for the 20th Annual UPAWS Strut Your Mutt charity walk for Marquette County’s homeless pets,” said the public release from UPAWS. “Everyone is invited to bring your dog(s), your family or just yourself.”

UPAWS hopes to raise more than $20,000 to support homeless pets. Being a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, these funds also support the operations of the shelter.

“Our 20th annual fundraiser is one of our top events of the year for UPAWS and a great day of fun for four- and two-legged participants of all ages,” said UPAWS. “It’s a morning of celebration. There’s an optional 1.5-mile walk and fun activities.”

There will be vendors for animals and their companions as well as a myriad of activities.

“Start raising pledges to support our shelter now,” said UPAWS. “The more money you raise, the more you help our shelter pets. Turn in your pledges that morning and win some great prizes. There are some really cool prizes for our top pledge raisers. It’s a fun morning with dog contests look-alike, pet tricks, best costume, a great raffle, and pet-themed and people vendors. Come and have some free breakfast goodies, enjoy the music and visit with other people & their dogs.”

Visit upaws.org/sym to register a team, be a vendor, sponsor, donate or just find more information.

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.