WAG Newsletter | February 2026
Walk/Run for the Animals
Walk/Run for the Animals is back! It's the 35th year of this amazing event and we're inviting you to join us! Registration is now open and we're ready to raise funds to support our lifesaving work with the animals.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 2 and get ready for a fun time that saves animal lives!
Make an Impact
Walk/Run is a tried and true, grassroots fundraising event. Registered walkers and runners are asked to fundraise to help us reach our goal. And while we hope everyone can join us for the event on May 2, if you can't be there you can register as a "fundraiser only" and support the animals from a distance.
The steps to making a difference for animals are easy...
Step One: Register.
Click here to register - early bird pricing is happening now so take advantage of reduced registration fees! Don't forget to join or form a team when register. Like most things, Walk/Run is more fun with your pack by your side.
Step Two: Raise Funds.
Registering for Walk/Run is just the beginning. The real lifesaving magic begins when you raise funds by asking your friends, family, neighbors - heck, ask a stranger! - to support your fundraising. And as you raise funds, you earn cool fundraising prizes (more on that, soon).
Step Three: Save Animal Lives.
We aren't exaggerating when we say your support saves lives. Every dollar you raise brings us closer to our goal of $300,000 to support animals in our community.
When you follow those three, simple steps, you unlock shelter, veterinary care, and a second for thousands of animals in our community.
Earn Cool Stuff
Helping animals is the real reward - earning fun stuff along the way is a sweet bonus. Fundraisers who reach milestones will earn prizes while they help animals.
We're excited about this year's prizes and excited to announce the return of commemorative art for our popular Walk/Run sweatshirts and t-shirts! Check out the 2026 Fundraising Prizes.
The Walk/Run you Love, But Bigger and Better!
If you've been with us for a while, you recall our days of Walk/Run in Esther Short Park in Downtown Vancouver. It was a great home for Walk/Run for so many years, but after relocating to the Downtown Vancouver Waterfront Park, we're never looking back! The Waterfront is a bustling hub of energy with local businesses, restaurants, and (of course) an amazing view!
This year, we're building on our success from 2025 with the return of our Vendor Village featuring more than 50 local vendors. Attendees can also enjoy the Walk/Run Raffle, with exciting items and packages for you and your pet.
Don't forget to enjoy the scenery on your 5k (or 3 mile) walk or run path. You'll begin the journey at Downtown Vancouver Waterfront Park and make your way along the route taking in incredible view of the Columbia River. Well... if you can take your eyes off the hundreds of dogs joining us, of course.
But we've saved the best for last... we're happy to announce the return of a favorite: the Walk/Run Beer and Wine Garden! Linger in the park after you finish your walk or run and share a tasty brew or glass of wine with your fellow animal lovers (admission to the beer garden is included in registration, limited to individuals aged 21 and older).
Are you Ready?
Walk/Run for the Animals is possible only with your support. When you register and raise funds, you fuel our lifesaving mission and deliver essential care to pets in need. So don't delay - click the button below and join us for a walk you'll never forget.
And if you're looking for more information and resources, head to our Walk/Run for the Animals page. You'll find links to fundraising tips, videos, and resources for creating a team.
HSSW Branded Merch!
We get it... you love pets, and you love HSSW and you want to show your support with cool merch. Well, the time has arrived - introducing the new HSSW Branded Merch Store!
In the store, you'll find shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies that are comfortable enough to wear to bed, but special enough to wear almost anywhere. The cotton-blend items are crafted for comfort and long-lasting durability. And in adult and youth sizing, there's something for everyone.
Merch Collections
HSSW Signature Series
It's a classic look that's always in style. The HSSW Signature Series features our logo on the front and our mission on the back. Help spread awareness of the lifesaving work happening at HSSW with our Signature Series attire.
Browse the Signature Series Collection
I ♥ Dogs / I ♥ Cats
It's the ultimate showdown... Dogs vs Cats. This classic throwback style is available in two-tone on grey or white and also available in white print on many colors. Which collection will sell more? Dogs? Cats? It's up to you! (Our tip: keep it balanced and buy one of each!)
Doin' it for the Animals
This limited-time collection, designed exclusively for HSSW, brings bright colors and retro vibes. Choose from a dog or cat silhouette and show off your support of your favorite shelter (it's HSSW, obviously!). But don't delay, this collection is limited to 2026 and you don't want to miss out.
Browse the Doin' it for the Animals Collection
Pamper Yourself
There's something special about new clothes, and picking up some HSSW swag is a great way to pamper yourself. Not only that, this merch makes a great gift for the animal lover in your life!
Best of all, you'll feel great knowing that a portion of your purchase comes right back to HSSW to support our lifesaving work with the animals.
National Pet Dental Health Month
February isn't just for valentines — it's also National Pet Dental Health Month, a great reminder that oral health is a vital (and often overlooked) part of your pet's overall wellbeing.
Why Dental Health Matters for Your Pet
Just like humans, pets can suffer from painful dental problems. Poor dental health doesn't stop at the mouth. Untreated dental issues can cause pain, infections, and may lead to severe health issues. Routine dental care is one of the most important preventative steps you can take for your pet's long-term health.
Affordable Dental Care Is Available at HSSW
We know that veterinary costs can be a barrier for many families, meaning some pets go without the care they need to live happy, healthy lives. Our Community Veterinary Clinic offers affordable, high-quality veterinary care, including dental treatments, for pets belonging to income-qualified families in our region.
The goal is simple: keep pets healthy and keep families together.
Do You Qualify?
Services at the Community Veterinary Clinic are available to families whose household income falls within the thresholds below:
| Number in Household | Clark County | Cowlitz County |
| 1 | $69,550 or less | $53,100 or less |
| 2 | $79,450 or less | $60,700 or less |
| 3 | $89,400 or less | $68,300 or less |
| 4 | $99,300 or less | $75,850 or less |
| 5 | $107,250 or less | $81,950 or less |
| 6 | $115,200 or less | $88,000 or less |
How to Make an Appointment
Appointments are required - walk-ins are not available. New appointment slots are released online on the 15th of each month for the following month, so mark your calendar and check back regularly.
Schedule online: hssw.org/cvc
Call or text: 360.984.6070
Email: [email protected]
Location:10501 NE Highway 99, Suite 31, Vancouver
To learn more about the Community Veterinary Clinic and available services, please visit our website.
Simple Steps you can Take at Home
Good dental care starts at home. Here are a few habits that can make a real difference:
Brush regularly. Brushing your pet's teeth a few times a week — ideally daily — with a pet-safe toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque buildup. Never use human toothpaste, as it can be harmful to animals.
Use dental toys and chews. Certain chews and toys are designed to help reduce tartar and massage the gums. It's important to speak with your vet to ensure you are providing safe and appropriate items for your pet. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
Watch what they eat. Dry kibble can help reduce plaque compared to wet food, though diet alone isn't a substitute for regular dental care.
Schedule professional cleanings. At-home care is important, but periodic professional dental cleanings by a veterinarian are often necessary to address buildup that brushing can't reach.
This National Pet Dental Health Month, give your furry family member something to smile about. Whether it's picking up a new toothbrush, scheduling a professional cleaning, or reaching out to the Community Veterinary Clinic to learn if you qualify - every step counts toward a healthier, happier pet.
