10/13/11 jgm

HAYS, Kan. -- Monsters will raise funds for mutts at a 5K run/walk event on Sunday, Oct. 30, at Frontier Park, in Hays. The event is being sponsored by the Western Plains Animal Refuge, the Fort Hays State University student organization Action for Animals and a FHSU Leadership 310 group.

Registration for the 5K will begin at 12 p.m. with a Halloween costume contest taking place immediately after.

The event is also open to canine companions for individuals who are participating in the 5K. The costume contest is for humans only, and costumes for dogs are not recommended or encouraged. Costumes for dogs can restrict movement, cause distress and be a choking hazard.

Both events are open to all ages, but participants under 18 will need a parent's signature. Registration is $20 for the 5K, $10 for the costume contest and $25 for both events.

All proceeds from the fundraiser, Mutts and Monsters, will benefit the Western Plains Animal Refuge, a local 501(c)(3), non-profit domestic animal shelter and wildlife rehabilitation center.

Individuals can register on the day of the event but are highly encouraged to pre-register online at muttsandmonsters.blogspot.com or at the FHSU Leadership Office, Rarick Hall, room 235, during normal school hours. Donations can also be made on a free-will basis and are tax-deductible.

To donate to the animal refuge, email westernplainsanimalrefuge@gmail.com or call 785-259-3675. More information and Halloween safety tips for companion animals can also be found at muttsandmonsters.blogspot.com.