Sarah Holland
Northern News Services

NNSL (Sep 15/99) - The Yellowknife community arena's parking lot was full of anxious dogs and owners on Sunday.

Everyone was there for the NWT SPCA Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk-a-thon, a fund - raising event for animal lovers.

There was such an array of dogs it was like being at a dog show, but a lot less formal. Owner's weren't trying to run their dogs while dressed to the hilt and carrying treats and grooming devises, and it certainly wasn't as embarrassing if your dog had an accident.

An eye-catching airedale pulled at the leash, excited by the sight and smell of so many other dogs. A duo of cute cocker spaniels sniffed the ground with interest. A golden retriever stood in all its beauty, calmly surveying his surroundings. A Staffordshire terrier was more friendly than she may have looked. Two beagle puppies ranked right up there as the most adorable dogs at the walk.

There were also glimpses of a greyhound, miniature daschund, shih tzus, llasa apsos as well as assorted mixed breeds, some of whom were shelter dogs.

Any dog sporting a yellow ribbon was from the shelter at the Great Slave Animal Hospital and up for adoption.

This year's walk proved infinitely more successful than last year's, when only 11 people participated. That number more than doubled on Sunday.

"One woman raised $1,600 from her pledges, and a boy brought in 26 cents. Every little bit helps," said volunteer Janet Pacey.

The dogs didn't go home empty-pawed either. There were prizes galore given out and free treats for the dogs along the way.

The prizes included two vaccination certificates, a dog and a cat basket full of goodies, five 20-minute walks, a talking dog collar, numerous cookie packages, two first aid books -- one for cats and one for dogs, an attachment for a leash to store plastic clean-up bags in and dog biscuit recipes, complete with bone-shaped cookie cutters.

The route the walkers followed took approximately 45 minutes to complete and as they trotted off to raise money for a worthy cause, it was apparent that some dogs were prancing, even showing off.

Tails were up and noses were held high as each dog walked with their owner, proving that humans aren't the only ones proud when on display.