Easter egg hunts apparently aren’t just for children.
Pet lovers and their dogs gathered at the annual “Hugs for Hounds Easter Egg Hunt” last Saturday at the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Hammel Woods Dog Park, 23435 Black Road in Shorewood.
“This is a really nice event,” said Julie Sheldon, 25, of Mokena, who attended the function with her golden doodle, Ellie. “It is very well put together and dogs are able to have fun and roam around with other dogs.”
Shorewood HUGS (SHUGS), which raises money for charities, organized the event with assistance from the Forest Preserve District of Will County.
Entry fees were $5 per dog. More than $2,000 was raised at the event, which is used for the handling and training of the Forest Preserve’s K-9 officer, Jullo.
“SHUGS is always looking for ways to help the community,” said Cindy Cain, public information officer for the Forest Preserve District of Will County. “This event combines family fun with fundraising for the Forest Preserve District’s K-9 officer, which is greatly appreciated.”
Nearly 300 dogs, many in costumes, sought treat-filled eggs at the event. In some cases, owners also wore costumes.
“Dog owners are encouraged to dress themselves and their dogs in costumes and many do,” Cain said. “Most dress in Easter-themed outfits. Some canines and their owners are dressed as chicks or bunnies; others wear Easter bonnets and dresses.”
Jenny Carley, 40, of Plainfield, attended the event with her blue heeler, Holly.
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“My dog likes to get outside and this was the perfect opportunity for her to have some fun for the holiday,” Carley said.
The Easter egg hunt lasted until all 4,200 eggs were retrieved by canine participants. Dog owners were encouraged to bring baskets to collect Easter eggs.
“Children are of course welcome, but the dogs are supposed to sniff or put their paw on an egg, before it can be picked up by an owner,” Cain said. “There are lots of egg hunts in the community for children, which are so much fun, but this is just for dogs.”
Drawings for a variety of filled Easter baskets also were held during the event, with prizes awarded for: biggest dog, smallest dog, best Easter outfit, dog that traveled the farthest and dog that looks most like its owner.
Local businesses donating to the event included, Shorewood Animal Hospital, Pampered Pups, Karen’s Pet Grooming, 2 Paws 4 U Pet Bakery, 7-Eleven in Shorewood, and the Jewel Food Store in Shorewood.
“I love my dog, Dublin, and there are so many people who really love their dogs,” said Susan Coyle, Shorewood HUGS member and chairwoman of Hugs for Hounds Easter Egg Hunt. “It is a fun, spring event to get people out to see the beautiful preserves we have here in Will County.”
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Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.