Huntsville Animal Services Launches New “Paws in the Park” Outdoor Event Series

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Huntsville Animal Services (HAS), in partnership with Healthy Huntsville, is excited to announce Paws in the Park, a brand‑new series of outdoor walking events designed to bring the community together, highlight Huntsville’s park trails and give shelter dogs a relaxing break from the shelter environment.

Paws in the Park will take place at two favorite local spots:

  • Hays Nature Preserve – November 7, 8 to 11 a.m.
  • Indian Creek Greenway – November 14, 8 to 11 a.m.

Participants may bring their own dogs or choose to walk a shelter dog for the one‑mile round‑trip route (with markers along each trail). The events are family‑friendly, and all groups must have at least one adult age 19 or older. Attendees who complete the trial walk will receive a small commemorative gift.

“These walks are about connection – with nature, our parks, our pets, and our community,” said John Fischer, Director of Huntsville Animal Services. “Shelter dogs thrive when they get time outdoors, and meeting potential adopters in a calm environment can make all the difference in finding their perfect match.”

Paws in the Park reflects HAS’s ongoing commitment to promoting outdoor activity, pet wellness and adoption opportunities through creative community engagement. These events also provide a neutral space for families to introduce their current pets to a potential shelter dog before making an adoption decision.

“We’re thrilled to bring this new series to Huntsville,” said Riley Ferrell, Community Engagement Coordinator for Huntsville Animal Services. “It’s a chance for families to enjoy the trails together while helping our dogs stretch their legs, relax and meet people in a way that feels natural and fun.”

Huntsville Animal Services is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 256-883-3782, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal or visit their Facebook page to learn more.

A full list of all currently available dogs and cats at Huntsville Animal Services can be found here.

Promotional graphic for Paws in the Park, a Huntsville Animal Services event to get people outside walking with their dogs, or walking a shelter dog

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