Dogs and owners pack park for charity

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The dog days of summer are in full swing, and you could definitely tell this morning in LaSalle Park.

It was a day for man and "man's best friend."

These four legged friends of all ages, shapes and sizes participated in the 4th annual "Run for Rover" at the LaSalle Park Pavilion on Sunday.

Pooches and their people packed the park to raise thousands of dollars for the Pet emergency fund.

The Director of the "Run for Rover" Tim Otterson said, "Last year we raised about $6,000, this year is bigger."

Since the Pet Emergency Fund began 10 years ago they have distributed over $300,000 to vets across Niagara and Erie counties which in turn has helped over 3,000 pets.

The primary basis of this fund is to help people afford medical care for their pets in emergency situations. That reason alone helped bring many of these six legged teams out.

Partcipant Shannon Stevens said, "People have been hit by the economy and have lost their jobs, Their pets unfortunately are the first thing that they have to give up as opposed to their children."

Others took this opportunity to meet other animal enthusiasts in the Buffalo area.

Tim Boling said, "We got this young puppy here and we wanted to get him accumulated around other dogs and we're big dog people too."

Amongst all the dogs here,it was the easiest to find the labs, they were all cooling off in the pool.

Since the hottest days of the year have arrived it is essential to protect your pet from the heat.

>>>Click here for ways to keep your animal safe in the heat.

Sharon Knop added, "Keep them really hydrated and if you have air conditioning use it or put the fan on. There are so many people that don't take care of their dogs that way. And don't ever put your dog in a car."

>>>Click here for the SPCA's Summer Reminders to Keep Animals Safe.