Pet parents can help to take steps toward a better tomorrow for people in need through the kindness of animals as they and their four-legged family members take steps during an annual event dubbed the World’s Largest Pet Walk!
When is The World’s Largest Pet Walk?
Launched in 2018, the virtual event takes place each year in late September. In 2024, the walk will happen on September 28th, although participants can take their trek any time from May through the end of the year.
What is The World’s Largest Pet Walk?
The yearly event was created to bring awareness of, and raise funds for, Pet Partners’ Therapy Animal Program, which honors the human-animal bond through visits by therapy animals to:
- residents in nursing homes and assisted living centers who are dealing with the effects of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and senior citizens who can benefit from having their day brightened by interacting with a furry friend.
- veterans centers, to help those suffering from PTSD.
- schools, where a therapy animal provides a non judgemental ear as children with literacy challenges read aloud in the Read With Me program.
- courtrooms, where a therapy animal can help to lower the anxiety level of a person preparing to take the stand.
- hospitals, where therapy animals provide companionship and cheer for patients.
How Can I Take Part?
There is no fee for taking part in the event, but participants are urged to create a fundraising page so family and friends can show their support for your stroll through donations.
A walk can be any length and duration and can consist of a group or just you and a four-legged friend. Participants are encouraged to share their sojourn on social media through photos and videos, using the hashtags #PetPartners and #WorldsLargestPetWalk.
