Sheba’s Haven, a rescue for palliative dog, held its sixth annual “Running of the Chihuahuas” fundraiser event for the first time since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic
Pet parents flocked to the rural part of west-end Kingston Sunday for the sixth annual “Running of the Chihuahuas.”
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the pint-sized pups were again the show’s stars.
The sixth annual event pit chihuahuas against each other in a series of races to crown a king or queen.
There was also a separate division for “Chihuahua wannabes,” which is reserved for other breeds under 10 pounds.
“Yeah, finally got the lift off the restrictions, and we thank God for that. So now, here we are having fun again,” said Bill McCormick, who helps run the dog rescue Sheba’s Haven.
What is Sheba’s Haven
Sheba’s Haven is a palliative dog rescue that takes in older dogs, typically with serious ailments, and allows them to live out their later years, months or weeks freely and happily.
“I’m giving them a life, and they can do what they want. That’s another problem because I let them do what they want, so there are sometimes hectic times,” said Catherine Pokrywa, who founded the dog rescue.
Since starting in 2001, Pokrywa says they’ve fostered over 100 dogs.
The organization is an official charity and does not receive government funding, which means they rely entirely on the community’s generosity.
This event is one of Sheba’s Haven’s biggest.
“Oh, I love it. I like meeting the people that support the other volunteers and us. I was asking them and thanking anybody here because they’re all helping my cause,” added McCormick.
As for the big winner, Hank the Chihuahua cleaned up in the round of champions to take home the trophy and some goodies.
Those in attendance enjoyed food, refreshments, and a whole lot of laughter.
It was a dog day afternoon full of fun, fur, and funds raised for a great cause.
