The story is simple, yet heatbreaking for anyone who has loved and lost a pet . In 2006, Mickey, a ten year old West Highland Terrier, died from cancer. He brought much joy into the lives of all who loved him and will always be remembered...therefore this walk was created. On May 26, 2007 the first Mickey's Mile Dog Walk was held to coincide with its namesake's birthday to raise awareness and funds. After the heartwarming success of this walk, due to caring pet owners who continue to support this cause, we will walk again for "Mickeys" everywhere.
Cancer is a major cause of death in dogs. It takes a devastating toll on pets, their families, and the people who provide their medical care. When our companions are stricken by cancer, we turn to the veterinarians who are on the cutting edge of cancer therapy. However, they need funds in order to advance their knowledge to provide us with treatment options for our four-legged family members. Therefore, we welcome all canines and their families and friends to participate in this fund raiser and are truly grateful for your donation.
All donations will go directly to The Purdue Foundation at Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine for canine cancer research. You may visit the website of Dr. Debra Knapp at www.vet.purdue.edu/pcop/ for research information.
The walk is one mile on a paved/unpaved path where dogs can take a dip in the creek waters provided they are leashed and supervised. It is a very enjoyable walk.
Please support this very important cause onSaturday, June 5, 2010. It will be held at the East Fishkill Community Center, 890 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, New York Same day sign -up begins at 10:00 am and the walk begins at 11:00 am.
There is a $20.00 minimum donation. However, if you are unable to attend but would like to make a donation we gratefully accept any amount. All checks are made payable to The Purdue Foundation and can be sent to: Mickey's Mile P.O. Box 463 Fishkill, NY 12524
Forms can also be obtained at the East Fishkill Town Hall, area veterinary offices, pet supply stores, or e-mail mmccr@optonline.net. Pre-registration is preferred. Goodie bags will be given to all participants.
There will be a steel drum band - Steel Passion, a raffle, pet programs/organizations/vendors: Mid Hudson Kennel Association, Positive Paws Visiting Pet Program, DCSPCA, Paws of Distinction Boutique and Petisserie, Embroidery Barn, Perfect Pets Rescue, Pause Dog Boutique, Michael Gallo-Pet photographer, Barnstormer Barbeque, Benny and Caesar's Ice Cream, Bark Busters Behavioral Therapists and Trainers, The Beacon Barkery, Ruff Cuts Dog Salon and Boutique, Reverend Sandra Mantz, Events by Giftscapes, Fetch! Pet Care, Country Courier Magazine-The Tick Key, Say It With Style, Home Sweet Home Sitters Inc, Safe Haven Animal Shelter & Wildlife Center, Pet-n-Play Luxury Resort, Creative Memories, Hudson Highlands Veterinary Medical Group, Debbie Grooming/ Boarding/ Pet Sitting, Greyhound Rescue, and Aunt Cre's Paws and Claws Pet Service.
This year a temporary dog park has been generously donated by TheMid-Hudson Fence Co. just for our participants for off-leash fun!
We are very fortunate to have the support of these wonderful people and are truly grateful for their generosity...thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!! Special thanks to Bill Green, Recreation Director of the Town of East Fishkill.
"IN LOVE THEY ARE REMEMBERED, IN MEMORY THEY LIVE"
Below: Purdue patients whose grateful family sent this picture .
Purdue Research Update from Dr.Knapp 2010:
We wish to send our most sincere thank you to all the dog families who are participating in the Mickey's Mile Dog Walk this year. You all are truly making a contribution to the fight against cancer. Our research team is specifically targeting transitional cell carcinoma. Through a team approach involving Dr. Elaine Ostrander in the Cancer Genetics Branch at the National Institutes of Health and Dr. Larry Glickman at the University of North Carolina, we are working to define the causes of cancer so we can develop strategies to prevent it. Additionally, we are collaborating with several laboratories to understand key components of the cancer cells that help them grow, and how to counteract them. Furthermore, through work with Dr. James Leary, Professor of Nanomedicine at Purdue University, our team is continuing to develop tiny nanoparticles for cancer treatment. Donations by people like you make a significant impact and we cannot thank each and every one of you enough for all the support you are providing to this mission.
Misty (pictured here and above) lost her brother, Casey, on 11/7/2009 after a 19 month battle with TCC. Special thanks to Misty's family for their generosity and support.
MICKEY'S MILE PROCEEDREPORT:
2007 -3,040
2008 - $4,800 (includes $1,000 donation from Mid-Hudson Kennel Association)
2009 - $6,255
2010 - $6,220
Our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants. Your generosity and continued support are responsible for the success of this very worthy walk we take together each year...