Walk a dog, raise some money

The National Amputation Foundation, a Malverne-based nonprofit that caters to amputee veterans, will join the Purple Heart Pups next month to raise funds for veterans.

Lisa Sciano founded the Pups in the summer of 2009 with the goal of helping disabled veterans transition back to civilian life and cope with their traumas.

While last year’s event — a family festival with a 3K walk — was successful, Sciano  planned something slightly different for this year: participants will be encouraged to bring along their dogs for the 3K and there will be a dog show, featuring prizes for best kisser, waggliest tail, best dressed, most unique, best dog and owner look alike, and best trick. All funds raised will go to the NAF and America’s VetDogs.

Purple Heart Pups, a subsidiary of the Merrick Lions Club Foundation, will hold the event on May 7 at the Four Towns Firefighter Training Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. The event will feature musical performances throughout the day, including those by Youtube sensation Lexxi Saal and possibly American Idol contestant Robbie Rosen. Sciano said Rosen is not yet confirmed for the event.

There will also be vendors at the event as well as a raffle — with a $350 gold watch as one prize. The Freeport High School Color Guard will also perform.

“It looks to be a really terrific fun time,” Sciano said. “A chance to have fun with family and the family’s best friend.”

To learn more about Purple Heart Pups or to donate, sponsor, volunteer or register for the 3K walk and dog show, visit purpleheartpups.org.