Dunn County Humane Society and The Bridge to Hope partner for a day of fun

Dunn County Humane Society (DCHS) and The Bridge to Hope are excited to announce the upcoming Walk for Paws: Community Festival and Awareness Walkathon on Sunday, October 4th, at Holtby Hall at the Rassbach Museum in Menomonie. This unique event aims to raise awareness for domestic violence during  Domestic Violence Awareness Month and foster a stronger, safer community for both people and pets. 

The event is a celebration of community spirit, family fun, and advocacy. Funds raised through the Walkathon will benefit both DCHS and The Bridge to Hope, providing essential services to people and animals in need. Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup of activities, including food trucks, raffles, an inflatable bounce house, community resource booths, and, of course, a walkathon parade!

Additionally, attendees are encouraged to help fundraise for this event by asking for pledges. Individuals who raise at least $75 will receive a free Walk for Paws T-shirt and a family registration for the event. 

“Violence in the home affects not just individuals but entire families—including pets. And pets are usually the first targets before violence escalates further. Unfortunately, at DCHS we see far too many pets who have endured unspeakable and intentional physical trauma, and then abandoned. This event allows us to stand up for all victims of  domestic violence, raise awareness, and contribute to a brighter future for our community,” said Harvey, Director of  Marketing and Development at Dunn County Humane Society.  

While discussing the importance of this event, Jenn McDermid, Director of Domestic Abuse Victim Services for The  Bridge to Hope, shared, "The Bridge to Hope is one of only five pet-friendly shelters among the 72 domestic violence shelters in Wisconsin. Recognizing the critical link between survivors and their pets, our shelter addresses a vital need: the fact that perpetrators often threaten or abuse pets to exert control over their victims. Many survivors hesitate to leave abusive situations if they cannot take their beloved animals with them, ultimately prolonging their suffering. Through our strong community partnership with Dunn County Humane Society, we are both committed to  fostering environments where both survivors and their pets can thrive free from abuse." 

This is more than just a walk; it's a chance to connect with your community and make a difference in the lives of families and pets facing challenges. Together, we are taking strides against violence, for people and pets. 

Event Details 

Date: Sunday, October 4th 

Location: Holtby Hall at the Rassbach Museum, Menomonie 

12:00 PM: Walk registration opens

1:30 PM: Walkathon Parade begins

2:30 PM: Raffle Basket Drawings 

Walkathon Registration: $10 for individuals | $25 for families 

Pets are welcome to join! Bring your well-socialized, vaccinated pets on a leash or in a carrier, stroller, or backpack. 

DCHS and The Bridge to Hope extend their heartfelt gratitude to sponsors, community partners, volunteers, and neighbors, including Faze’s Tobacco; WI Fun Factory; Hoof & Paw Vet Clinic; Andersen Windows; Monarch Paving  Company; and Jackie Hunt, State Farm Insurance, whose support makes events like Walk for Paws possible. 

For more information about this fundraiser event or to learn how to get involved with this community event, please visit dunncountyhumanesociety.org or email director@dunncountyhumanesociety.org. 

Media release.