'Stroll to the Sea' Dog Walk Benefits Animals in Need

WAINSCOTT, NY — Once again, animal advocates will take a stroll to benefit dogs in need.

The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, Inc. will host its 23rd Annual “Stroll to the Sea” Dog Walk on Saturday, October 8, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Organized with the feeling of a country fair, the event aims to promote responsible dog ownership and awareness of ARF.

The two-mile walk to the ocean and back will begin and end at the Mulford Farm, owned by the East Hampton Historical Society in East Hampton Village.

Dog walkers can register by clicking here.

The pre-registration fee is $30 for adults, with a fee of $35 on the day of the event; admission is free for children under 16 with a registered adult.

Registration brochures are also available at the ARF Adoption Center in Wainscott, the ARF Thrift Shop in Sagaponack as well as at many local businesses.

All registrants will receive free nail clippings for their dogs, a free event T shirt and tote bag and refreshments including Starbucks Coffee, Dreesen’s Famous Donuts and dog treats from South Fork Pet Company. This year’s T shirt features artwork by designer Isaac Mizrahi.

Fun contests will be held at the event, including "Dog/Companion Look Alike", "The Pooch Who Can Smooch," and "Stupid Pet Tricks."

First prize for all contest winners is a crystal dog created by Baccarat.

In addition, a dog agility course will be set up.

Singer/songwriter Sandy Rapp will perform once again this year, and a silent and Lucky #s auction, with a great array of prizes, will also be held.

To raise pledges, set up your own team or join one by clicking here.

Prizes for top fundraisers include: three nights with a coastal view at the Ritz- Carlton, Half Moon Bay, California, a summer share for the 2017 season at Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett, and a pet page in the 2018 ARF Pet Calendar. The top child prize, for kids under 16, is a bicycle from the Sag Harbor Cycle Company.

In addition, everyone who collects $250 or more in pledges receives a special gift, courtesy of Isaac Mizrahi New York.

Those who register as a “Top Dog”, contributing $250, or a “Great Dane”, contributing $500, are invited to attend the exclusive Kick-Off Cocktail Party on Friday, October 7 at 6 p.m., hosted by committee member Annne Farro and her former ARFan Brinkley at the East Hampton waterfront home of ARF supporters and adopters Patrick Campion & Richard Ziegelasch.

Dog contests and the awards ceremony begin at 11 a.m. and the “Stroll to the Sea” festivities conclude at noon. A rain date for the event has been set for Sunday, October 9, with an 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. walk.

This year’s presenting sponsor is East End Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center. Supporting sponsors include Starbucks, Corcoran Group Real Estate, Ollie Pet Food, Prince Associates and The Ocean Group. The ARF Mobile Adoption Van will lead the walkers to the ocean and back, a release said.

The ARF Adoption Center is located at 91 Daniels Hole Road in Wainscott, next to the East Hampton Airport.

ARF courtesy image.