THE WEEKLY WAG

Your Go-To Guide for All Things Walk of Love

Week 1: Launching Your Journey

Let’s Get Moving — 6 Weeks to Go!

Welcome to the very first edition of The Weekly Wag! This is your official home base for the next six weeks as we gear up for the Walk of Love. We are officially 42 days away from making a massive impact—one step, one wag, and one purr at a time.


Why Your Strides Matter

While your registration gets you to the starting line, your fundraising provides the finish line for a homeless cat or dog’s journey. Every dollar you raise is a direct investment in:



  • Life-Saving Care: Emergency treatments and preventative medicine.
  • Comfort: Cozy bedding and high-quality nutrition.
  • Happiness: Enrichment activities to keep spirits high while they wait for forever homes.


You aren’t just walking; you’re providing another chance that these animals simply wouldn't have without you.

LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT

Big rounds of "ap-paws" for our pack leaders this week/ You all are leading the charge! Who will take the top spot next week?


TOP FUNDRAISERS

1-Michelle Haskell $150

2-Phoebe Winters $130

3-TIE Charlotte Joshi and Sandy Wilner $100


FUNDRAISING TIPS

Start with your “why.” People donate to your personal story and your connection to animals. Share a photo of your own pet or a shelter favorite to make it personal! Need inspiration? Heartland will be a sharing a mission moment each week that you can use for your fundraising outreach.


Your Quick-Start Template

Copy, paste, and send this to your friends and family today:


"I’m walking for Heartland Animal Shelter because [personal reason]. My goal is to raise $[Amount] to help local pets find new homes. Can you help me reach it? Donate here: [Insert Your Personal Fundraising Page URL]"

MISSION MOMENT

Alpha and Omega (formerly known as Zach and Cody) first arrived at Heartland in 2022, they were just bouncy, wide-eyed pups. We knew they were special, and we made sure they left our care with the most important gift we could give them: a Heartland microchip.


They found a wonderful home together, but life took an unexpected and heartbreaking turn. Their adopter passed away suddenly, leaving these two brothers confused, alone, and without a place to call home.


They eventually ended up with Northbrook Animal Care and Control. In many cases, dogs without owners face an uncertain future, but Alpha and Omega had a "silent voice" speaking for them.


Because we microchipped them years ago, Northbrook was able to scan them and instantly trace those chips back to Heartland Animal Shelter. The moment they called us, we knew there was only one answer: Bring them home.


Why Your "Walk of Love" Matters

Alpha and Omega’s story is a powerful reminder that our work doesn’t end when a dog walks out our doors. By supporting the Walk of Love, you are ensuring that:

  • Every animal receives a microchip, creating a permanent safety net for life.
  • We have the resources to welcome back "alumni" when tragedy strikes, no matter how many years have passed.
  • Brothers like Alpha and Omega can stay together while they wait for their next "chapter."


These boys are back in our halls, receiving the same love they did in 2022, all because a tiny chip told the world exactly where they belonged. Thank you for walking to keep these success stories possible!



GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Raffle Baskets


This week's featured basket is "Swing, Style & Sandwiches," valued at $450!


Basket Includes:

  • Foursome of golf at Chevy Chase Golf Course
  • Carrera Navigator Sunglasses
  • Rammy's Sub Contractors $20 gift certificate


Check out the Walk of Love website for a full list of raffle baskets and details


Route Markers


Want to see your pet’s face (or your company logo) along the trail?


Our custom Route Markers are personalized foam-core signs displayed along the walk route.


They make for a great photo op, and you get to take the sign home as a keepsake afterward!


Deadline to order: May 29th

Important Reminder

Please remember complete your t-shirt order and waiver.

Come In Style

Donate to support the Walk of Love and receive a special bandana.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Don't miss these important milestones to ensure you get your gear:



  • May 25, 2026: Raise or donate your minimum to guarantee your t-shirt on event day.
  • May 29, 2026: Final deadline to order Route Markers.
  • June 13, 2026: Deadline to qualify for additional fundraising incentives!