Submitted photo
The Richard Moyer Memorial Dog Walk Fundraiser is held to honor the late Richard Moyer Sr., who is shown here walking his dog, Summer.
NEWPORT — Richard Moyer Sr.’s love of dogs demonstrated why they are man’s best friend. One of the Newport man’s favorite pastimes was sharing animal stories on his walks with his dog, Summer, at Little Buffalo State Park.
Moyer passed away in May 2022 at age 80. His friends honored him by holding the Richard Moyer Memorial Dog Walk Fundraiser at one of his favorite stomping grounds — Little Buffalo — last year.
Organizers hope the event will become an event as the second annual walk is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday at Little Buffalo State Park in Newport. Walkers, with or without canines, should meet at Pavilion No. 2, rain or shine.
Proceeds benefit the Perry County Animal Rescue in Millerstown, which serves Juniata and Perry counties.
“We’ll share a story or two about Richard then walk the main loop at the swimming pool parking lot,” said Stephen Hoke, of Newport, one of the organizers of the event along with Frank Aungst, of Newport, and Heather Lesh-Ulsh, of Elliottsburg, Perry County.
Hoke had known Moyer for about 50 years.
“You do not need a dog to join in the walk,” he added. “The rescue is at full capacity, so let’s try to raise some money to help them out with the dogs that Richard cared so much about.”
Volunteers and dogs from the rescue will also be in attendance. Currently, the Perry County rescue has 26 dogs and more than 20 cats who are looking for homes.
“Richard always had a great love for animals,” Hoke explained. “He was disheartened at the height of COVID when people adopted animals then were letting them go.” Which is why many shelters and rescues are at maximum capacity.
Around 12 walkers participated in last year’s event, which raised about $360, Hoke said.
Donations can be mailed to the Perry County Animal Rescue, 379 Sugar Run Rd., Millerstown, PA 17062.