A fundraising event to give dogs a second chance. Walkin’ the Dog is more than a fun walk with your pup — it’s a chance to save lives and celebrate the rescues that save them. Hosted by Gigi’s and in support of the Jess Sheehan Fund for Dogs at Gigi's, this inaugural event supports our mission to provide high-quality medical and behavioral care for shelter dogs across Ohio. Whether you walk solo, join a team, fundraise with friends, or attend the festival with your family, your steps help dogs in need take their first steps toward a better life. 

FREE DOG FESTIVAL

> FREE ADMISSION 
> OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 
> 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Celebrate all things dog at our Free Dog Festival, a day where community, compassion, and canine joy come together. No ticket needed — just bring your love for dogs and enjoy:

• Dog Rescue Marketplace
• Tricks, Skills, & Training Demos
• Kids Zone: Learn, Play, & Love

FUNDRAISING DOG WALK

> $15/PERSON 
> REGISTRATION REQUIRED 
> 11:30 AM REGISTRATION OPEN; 1:00 PM WALK START

Take your impact further by signing up to walk and fundraise. You’ll help even more dogs get the care they need—and unlock special perks on event day.

• Noncompetitive fundraising walk
• Rescue community fundraiser
• Recieve a free t-shirt

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

SIGN UP TO WALK
Join the walk to celebrate dogs, community, and second chances. Every step you take shows your support for shelter dogs across Ohio. Dogs welcome, but not required!
Register now ▸

VISIT THE FREE DOG FESTIVAL
Open to the public, this vibrant space features adoptable dogs, local rescues, pet-focused vendors, handmade goods, family-friendly games, kids zone, and expert advice from dog trainers and behaviorists.

FUNDRAISE FOR DOGS
Take your impact further by signing up to walk and fundraise. You’ll help even more dogs get the care they need—and unlock special perks on event day.
Start your fundraiser ▸

BECOME A SPONSOR
Show your support in a big way. Sponsor Walkin’ the Dog to make a meaningful impact—for the dogs and for the community that loves them. Your leadership fuels lifesaving work and inspires others to give.
View sponsorship opportunities ▸

BECOME A VENDOR
Join our Rescue Marketplace and connect with hundreds of pet lovers and community members. Whether you’re a rescue group, artisan, pet brand, or local business — this is a great way to share your work and support a cause that matters.
Apply to become a vendor ▸

NONCOMPETITIVE FUNDRAISING WALK
Walk a mile, stroll a block, or meander through our event. Just get out and move with your dog. Don’t have a dog that loves crowds? That’s cool. Grab your friends and family and join us to celebrate dogs!

RESCUE COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER
This walk isn’t just for fun — it’s for impact. When you walk or fundraise, you’re supporting the dogs who need us most.  Proceeds benefit the Jess Sheehan Fund for Dogs at GIgi’s; 100% going to saving lives on the front lines every day. Together, we’re fueling lifesaving care and second chances.

DOG RESCUE MARKETPLACE
Explore a bustling market filled with nonprofit rescues and dog-focused businesses, all committed to helping dogs thrive. From adoption-ready dogs to vendors who support animal welfare through services or donations, this is where mission meets community. Come learn, connect, and discover how you save dogs.

TRICKS, SKILLS, & TRAINING DEMOS
Come see what dogs can do — and how they learn to do it! Watch impressive skills from trained dogs and learn from local trainers about how you can build better behavior and communication with your own pup. Curious kids and adults alike can join in and try out a few techniques on the spot.

KIDS ZONE: LEARN, PLAY, & LOVE
Bounces, brushes, and better dog skills! Our Kids Zone is built to teach children how to be safe, respectful, and confident around dogs. Packed with face painting, bounce houses, and activities, it’s all about building fun and foundations for a future generation of thoughtful dog lovers.