Lexington Park, MD –– Nearly 50 participants and their canine companions came out to Lancaster Park in Lexington Park on Saturday August 8th for the 2nd Annual American Cancer Society Bark For Life of St. Mary’s County, MD.  The weather was perfect for a walk around the park and for games and contests with the canines.   

The American Cancer Society Bark For LifeTM is a noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer.

Barb Whipkey, owner of the new Wild Birds Unlimited Leonardtown Store (opening later this month) was recognized as this year’s Grand Marshall.  She is a 15-year cancer survivor. Barb was recognized for her love of dogs, animals and nature and her support of our community.   

The top individual fundraisers for the event were Gail Beakley followed closely by Sonal Stachowski  and Melanie Smith. The top fundraising teams were Trails End Pet Sitting, The Pooches of Pembrooke and Scrambled Legs.

This year’s event sponsors were, JT Productions, Three Notch Veterinary Hospital, Pet Valu and Indian Bridge Kennels. & Trails End Pet Sitting.   

Nearly $3,000 was raised for the American Cancer Society.

2015 Relay For Life of St. Mary’s County MD event lead Melanie Smith, who recently relocated to the Eastern Shore, returned for the event. She was very appreciative of the support and participation shown by the community. She said,  “Since only service animals are permitted at our main Relay For Life event,  this event gives participants an opportunity to bring their canine companions out to a Relay event geared just for them. The dogs looked great in their costumes and everyone had a great time.  We were able to raise funds to support the mission of the American Cancer Society. Thank you to all who participated.”

To learn more about Relay For Life of St. Mary’s County or Bark For Life of St. Mary’s County and how you can get involved in 2016, visit www.relayforlife.org/stmarysmd or email info@stmarysrelay.org

 Photo Gallery and video by The Bay Net Photojournalist Ron Bailey