This article was featured in WYDaily on 6/7/24
The Heritage Humane Society is encouraging area dog owners to buddy up with Fido this summer for some outdoor adventures along the trails throughout James City County parks. Through the shelter’s Fido Field Trips and dog foster programs, those pet lovers without dogs can even get in on the fun.

Tails on the Trails 

On the first Saturday of June each year, The Heritage Humane Society teams up with James City County Parks and Recreation in celebration of National Trail Day. On June 1, Tails on the Trails served as Greater Williamsburg’s kickoff to summer. This year’s event was enjoyed by 37 dogs, along with 112 of their human companions.

Held 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Greensprings Interpretive Trail, event participants also had the opportunity to meet adoptable dogs, Sonny, BeanMajor, Pony and Riggs. Later that day, Sonny was adopted. The four others are available for adoption and hoping to find their forever homes.

Get outdoorsy

James City County Parks and Recreation has eight parks brimming with trails and dog-friendly offeringsGreensprings Interpretive TrailFreedom ParkJCC Rec Center ParkUpper County ParkVeterans ParkWarhill Sports ComplexPowhatan Creek Trail and Ironbound Park. Two parks — Jamestown Beach Event Park and Veterans Park, both feature outdoor off-leash dog areas.
Katie Turk, JCC Parks and Recreation’s Program Coordinator for Special Events and Programs, shares, “James City County Parks and Recreation was honored to partner with Heritage Humane Society for our annual Tails on the Trail event on the first Saturday of June, celebrating National Trail Day. This year, we had an incredible turnout with 37 dogs joining the fun. It is always a joy to see the community come together to support our local trails and animal welfare.”

Register for the 2024 FURever Homes Race

Runners and walkers who are interested in setting personal records or simply joining in on race day fun can sign up for the FURever Homes Race 8k, 5k, and 1-mile Fun Run. Held on the grounds of Jamestown High School, the race courses weave through sections of Powhatan, Greensprings and the Capital Trail. The event is June 15, and is an official Colonial Road Runners Grand Prix Event.

Mark the calendar for a splish, splashing end to summer

A summer of fun adventures exploring Greater Williamsburg’s nature is topped off with one of The Heritage Humane Society’s biggest park partnership events — Drool in the Pool. This year, the popular and ever-growing event is scheduled for Sept. 8 at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park Pool. Dogs are the swimmers of the day with plenty perfecting the art of the belly flop and showing off their best dog-paddling swim techniques. The morning is filled with spectators and vendors for all to enjoy.

Want to join, but don’t have a dog?

The Heritage Humane Society is filled with more adoptable dogs than it has had in years. For pet lovers who would like a more temporary opportunity, the shelter has robusFido Field Tripsvolunteer and fully supported foster volunteer programs.
In addition to dogs, the shelter is filled with homeless cats and small critters who are eager to have new homes. Adding to the memories, adopt soon and participate in this year’s Hello Summer Pet Photo Contest.
Nearly 190 dogscats and small pets are currently in their care. Adoptable pets are available to meet during The Heritage Humane Society’s visiting and adopting hours from noon to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.
To learn more, visit HeritageHumane.org, call 757-221-0150, or visit The Heritage Humane Society located at 430 Waller Mill Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185.

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