Fayetteville is going to the dogs, but it's all for a good cause. Bark

in the Park 1998 is scheduled for this Saturday in McCurry Park starting

at 11 a.m. Animal lovers and the objects of their affections can

solicit pledges and then walk a mile to win prizes which include a night at

the Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center with dinner and brunch

(sorry, no pets allowed) or an annual pass to Zoo Atlanta. Additional

prizes include a $50 Blockbuster gift certificate and t-shirts for the top 25

fund raisers. All proceeds benefit the Fayette County Humane Society.

Last year's event drew several hundred people and their pets,

according to Humane Society president Laurie Klonoski. "It was very

successful; we were tickled to death," she said.

The second "Bark in the Park" will feature a few additions and

some new attractions, according to Klonoski. The walk-a-thon route

in McCurry Park has been paved since last year's gathering,

providing access to the handicapped and parents with strollers.

Carolyn Ford is loaning a golf cart for the occasion to

handicapped participants.

New attractions include a demonstration by two members of

the Riverdale Police Canine Unit and their handlers starting at 12:15

p.m., and a Frisbee demonstration by the 1997 dog and disc champion

from Atlanta at 1 p.m.

The entire program runs between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and features

the pet parade, exhibits and vendors, contests for pet and owner

look-a-likes, size, trick, and costume, pet portraits and caricatures.

Country singer Lisa Wagner, winner of the 1998 Jimmy Dean

award, will perform between 11:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Drinks and a choice

of hot dogs, regular or soy bean will be on sale throughout the day.

"The whole point is family fun," Klonoski emphasized.

"There's nothing quite like this in the south metro area." Although pledges

are not mandatory for participation in the pet parade, Klonoski said

walkers are encouraged to donate $10. The main purpose is fund raising for

the Humane Society.

Organizers are reminding participants to have all animals

leashed, licensed and immunized. Water will be served community style

and owners are reminded to clean up after their pets.

McCurry Park is located at the corner of McDonough Road and

Ga. Highway 54, east of Fayetteville. Pledge applications for pet

owners wishing to participate in the walk-a-thon can be obtained at area

veterinarian offices or by calling 770-487-1073.

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