Pasadena Humane Raises Over $350,000 At 27th Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run

Under sunny skies and 80-degree weather, tails were wagging and sneakers were squeaking as the 27th Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run brought together nearly 2,000 people and their four-legged companions at Pasadena’s Brookside Park near the Rose Bowl on Sunday.

The event is Pasadena Humane’s largest annual fundraiser and it held special significance this year because the organization continues to care for animals displaced by January’s devastating Eaton Fire.

“We took in a lot of animals during the fires, and unfortunately, we still have about 140 animals that we are caring for, for people who lost their homes,” Kevin McManus, Communications Director for Pasadena Humane, told KTLA News.

According to humane society officials, $350,904.96 was raised before the event even started. The final amount collected has not yet been announced.

The funds will support vital programs, including the animal ICU, foster care, kitten nursery, wildlife rehabilitation, the pet food pantry, and the Helping Paws pet owner assistance program.

Participants could choose between 1-mile and 5K routes around two separate loops at the Rose Bowl, with owners either walking their dogs on leashes, carrying them, or pushing them in doggie strollers.

Lisa Arredondo and her Golden Retriever, Bobo, both from South Pasadena, were eager to get on with the day’s activities.

“He wants to run,” she laughed, as she struggled with his leash.

The day began with registration, where she signed Bobo up —since he “didn’t bring a pen.”

The event was imbued with a sense of camaraderie and togetherness.

“In the wake of the Eaton Fire, we’re focusing on coming together as a community to celebrate our strength and resilience,” said Mia Dunn, Senior Director of Philanthropy at Pasadena Humane.

Numerous activities unfolded beyond the walk itself, including a busy vendor expo with giveaways showcasing everything from healthy dog foods to the latest in pet gadgets, a “Sit, Stay and Play” training park, an agility course, a doggy costume contest that had the crowd howling with delight, and food trucks catering to both human and canine attendees.

McManus emphasized the ongoing challenges facing the organization: “We did see a lot of injured animals come through…it was an unprecedented event for us and Southern California, so we are still recovering from that.” He added, “It does make today a little bit more important for us.”

The impact of the January wildfires has been significant, with KFI AM 640 reporting a broader impact of over 1,200 dogs, highlighting the scale of the crisis.

Participant Kristin Sullivan, at the business end of a leash holding back two eager dachshunds, said she’s participated in the event since before the pandemic.

“There is so much energy, there is so much excitement, and my guys love it,” she said.

For those unable to attend in person, virtual participation options ensured that everyone could be part of the pack. As the event wagged its last tail, it was clear that the community’s collective efforts had made a significant paw-sitive impact, leaving both two-legged and four-legged participants looking forward to next year’s gathering.

More information about Pasadena Humane Society and its fundraising efforts can be found at www.pasadenahumane.org.