2016 was “ruff” for Bradford pooches, with the annual Doggie-Walk taking a hiatus for the year.

This year, event organizers are reinviting locals to bring their four-legged friends for the canine-comeback of the Doggie-Walk scheduled for Saturday.

Much like the years prior, the walk is an effort to raise donations for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“We chose (St. Jude) to donate to because of the difference they make in the community,” said Andrea Gonzalez, organizer of the walk. “It’s always great to know that it’s all going towards a good cause.”

St. Jude is known for its research and efforts in treating pediatric diseases, while not charging families for the treatment, travel, housing or food.

“I know when we send our donations to St. Jude, the money is going to directly and positively impact the lives of children and their families,” Gonzalez said.

Since the first year of the walk, it has been sponsored by the Bradford medical office of Gonzalez’ husband, Dr. Luis Gonzalez, and this year will include the added sponsorship by Ameriprise Financial Services of Bradford.

The walk will start at the parking lot near the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford tennis courts. There will be a $20 donation for participants to walk their dog, as well as for participants who prefer to walk without a dog.

Event organizers will also be on site collecting supplies to donate to the McKean County SPCA, including food, toys and other pet supplies.

After the walk, there will be a contest with a prize, as well as refreshments.

The Rev. Leo Gallina will bless the participants, both pups and people, prior to the walk.

Anyone with questions is welcome to call Dr. Gonzalez’s office at 814-362-4345.
For those who wish to donate but don’t want to participate in the walk, checks made out to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital can be dropped off at the doctor’s office at 181 Interstate Parkway, Bradford.