Bark in the Park celebrates its 25th Anniversary at Soldier Field

Diane Pathieu Image
Saturday, May 18, 2019
Bark in the Park celebrates silver anniversary
Bark in the Park celebrated its 25th anniversary at Soldier Field Saturday.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Dogs lead their humans to Chicago's Original Dog Party, Bark in the Park, on Saturday on the Stadium Green at Soldier Field.

Thousands of animal-lovers and their dogs spent a fun morning raising funds and awareness for The Anti-Cruelty Society, Chicago's oldest animal welfare organization which turns 120 in 2019. Bark in the Park also helps animals find their forever homes.

ABC7 is a proud sponsor of the event.

Thousands are expected to attend the 25th annual Bark in the Park fundraiser, which benefits The Anti-Cruelty Society.

The 2019 Bark in the Park saw record registration numbers.

The event is the Anti-Cruelty Society's largest fundraiser.

"Our expansion area is in providing veterinary services in the community, so that all animals in Chicago are healthy and they never have to make it to a shelter," said Tracy Elliott of the Anti-Cruelty Society.

Maria Haleem and her dog, Suki, attended for the first time this year.

"I wanted to bring her for once and have a good time," Haleem said.

Haleem was one of hundreds of volunteers who worked to make the event a success.

Some of our favorite ABC7 pet families were there as the two and a half mile walk kicked off, including Roz Varon, Hosea Sanders, and their furry friends.

When the walk was over, dogs tackled the agility course, and their owners enjoyed food and live music.

"It's a great way to raise money for an amazing organization like the Anti-Cruelty Society," said pet owner Katie Reynolds.