Wednesday, Mar 11, 2026 09:45 [IST]
Last Update: Tuesday, Mar 10, 2026 16:35 [IST]
Darjeeling, : The Queen of the Hills is set to witness a heart-warming initiative
this month as parents and their dogs will take to the streets in a walkathon
aimed at raising awareness and compassion for animals.
The
event, titled “Paw-rathon,” is being jointly organized by Woofers, Unnati
Foundation, Darjeeling Goodwill Animal Shelter and Vik-Run Foundation, with
support from Off-Track Movement and Run Riot. It is scheduled to be held on
March 22, and will feature a 10-km marathon along with a 4-km walkathon.
“The
main aim of organizing this event is to create awareness among people about
becoming dog- and animal-friendly. I believe this walkathon is the first of its
kind in this region, and people can participate either with or without their
pets. We want people to support our cause,” said Paruka Chettri of Woofers.
According
to the organizers, the programme aims to highlight several issues related to
animal welfare, including compassion towards animals, particularly stray dogs,
and the importance of responsible pet ownership. Funds raised through the event
will also go towards supporting animal welfare activities.
“The
issues we want to highlight include animal cruelty, hit-and-run cases involving
dogs, and pet abandonment. The rising population of stray dogs is another
concern. While we are doing our bit, funds are required to care for them and
for sterilization drives to control the stray dog population. Through this programme,
we hope to generate some support,” Chettri added.
Participants
will be charged Rs 499 for the 10-km marathon and Rs 299 for the 4-km
walkathon. Students can participate in either event for Rs 299. Both events
will start and end at Chowrasta.
Prizes
will be awarded to the top three finishers in the marathon, while participants
in the walkathon will compete for top ten prizes in categories such as best
obedient pet, best dressed pet and best partnership between pet and owner,
among others. Registration forms are available online and at various shops in
the town.
Another
highlight of the day will be the felicitation of around ten local residents who
regularly feed and care for stray dogs by providing them food and shelter.
The
organizers have also requested participants to bring only crowd-friendly and
well-socialized dogs, as large gatherings can sometimes cause stress, anxiety
or fear among pets.
