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Mutt Strut: Frequently Asked Questions


Thank you for being a part of PAWS’ Mutt Strut: 2020 Virtual Edition! Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about the event, registering, and fundraising.

Event Details

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When is the Mutt Strut?

Saturday, October 24, 2020! The fun will kick off online at 9:30 a.m. Register ahead of time at pawsmuttstrut.org to enter contests, receive your goodie bag, and get access to exclusive event content.

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Where will the Mutt Strut be held?

Wherever you are! Normally, we gather for a walk and festival at Philadelphia’s Navy Yard every October, but to keep everyone safe and healthy, we are holding this year’s Mutt Strut entirely virtually.

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What will the event be like this year?

We’ll come together in the morning of October 24 for an online kickoff, then we’ll have a distanced “Strut” wherever you are, with the option to walk your dog in your neighborhood, do something creative in the house or yard, or simply follow along online for fun programming. Afterward, we’ll regroup for more virtual celebrations including guest appearances, raffles, and  winner announcements.

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Why do we hold the Mutt Strut?

Because it’s the happiest day of the year, and we love our mutts! But more importantly, the Mutt Strut is a major fundraiser for PAWS and we rely on funds raised through this event to save Philadelphia’s homeless pets year-round. 

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How do I participate?

Register ahead of time at pawsmuttstrut.org to create your online fundraising page. You can register on your own or start a team! From now ’til October 24, ask your friends and family for donations to your page to support PAWS and help you reach your fundraising goal. For the day of the event, make a plan to participate in your own way, whether you walk your dog outside or find a creative way to “Strut” your pet at home. Registrants will have the chance to share photos and videos of the fun they’re having with other participants: stay tuned!

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Do I need a dog to participate?

You don’t! PAWS’ virtual Mutt Strut is a celebration for all pets and the people who love them. Participate with your cat, dog, lizard, or other pet, or if you are currently pet-free, tune in to watch other animals do their thing. Strut with us, mutt or no mutt!

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How will the contests work this year?

The contests are one of the most fun parts of the Mutt Strut, and this year will be no different! We’ll collect entries online ahead of time and announce the winners during our online program the day of the Mutt Strut. Follow us on social media for opportunities to submit photos and videos to enter your pet to win “Best Quarantine Buddy,” “Best Costume,” and more. All pets are included this year – not just dogs!

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What technology do I need for the full Mutt Strut experience?

Just the basics! 

– An up-to-date computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Instagram or Facebook to view the live kickoff.

Zoom for bonus registrants-only portions of the event. 

– Email to receive pre-event updates.  

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What is the Virtual Festival Village?

It’s a special feature of the Mutt Strut that will offer a chance to learn about the wonderful businesses in our community that support PAWS. Registrants will receive a link to “visit” vendors as a way to experience the booths featured each year at the Mutt Strut. Stay tuned for exclusive coupons, discounts, and giveaways!

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How can my business get involved?

Read about sponsorship and virtual vendor opportunities here, or email us at muttstrut@phillypaws.org.

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Does PAWS have face masks for sale?

Yes! PAWS logo reusable face masks are available for $12 each or $20 for a pair. You will have the opportunity to purchase them as an add-on to your event bag after registration.

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How can I celebrate the Mutt Strut on social media?

Connect with us! 

– If you aren’t already, follow PAWS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

– Mark yourself as “Going” on the Mutt Strut Facebook event to get all the latest updates.

– Post your own photos and video using the hashtag #pawsmuttstrut (tip: set your privacy settings to “public” if you are comfortable doing so; that way we can see it and maybe even share it!)

– Print a “Why I Strut” sign to share your story!

– Watch our event kickoff the day of the Mutt Strut on Facebook Live and Instagram Live.

Registration Questions

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What are the registration fees?

– $30 per person
– $45 includes a limited edition 2020 Mutt Strut t-shirt

 

All proceeds benefit PAWS’ lifesaving efforts! Register now.

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How much of my registration fee goes to PAWS?

All of it! All funds raised from the Mutt Strut directly support our lifesaving efforts. When registering or donating, you will also have the option to cover the fees associated with your transaction.

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What do I get for registering?

Each paid registrant will receive a PAWS Mutt Strut goodie bag with a PAWS logo bandana, as well as a 2020 Mutt Strut t-shirt depending on registration level. You will also gain access to registrants-only online programming including a group Zoom party.

 

Most importantly, you’ll have the knowledge that you are supporting the effort to save and serve Philadelphia’s neediest pets as we work to make Philadelphia a no-kill city. The animals need us more than ever; we are counting on the support of our community to overcome the unique challenges of 2020 and continue saving lives.

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Will my registration fee count toward my fundraising goal?

Yes! You’ll see it appear toward your total as the very first donation to your fundraising page.

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Can I still participate without paying to register?

Non-registrants will have access to some online content, including the Facebook Live and Instagram Live kick-offs. But if you’re able to register, please do: it will give you the full event experience, and will also help us save lives!

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How do I receive my Mutt Strut goodie bag?

Prior to the Mutt Strut, all registrants will be given a link to claim their event bags. We will have bag pickup events at all three PAWS locations the week of the Mutt Strut. Stay tuned! 

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Can I choose additional items for my event bag?

Yes! When you claim your event bag, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase add-ons including a PAWS face mask, an extra event t-shirt, and a variety of other PAWS gear. Your purchases will be waiting for you in your bag when you pick up.

Fundraising Questions

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When should I start fundraising?

There’s no time like now! As soon as you complete registration, your fundraising page will be ready to share and receive donations.

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How do I create a fundraising page?

Your personal fundraising page is automatically created for you when you register. After you complete registration, you will receive an email to Claim Your Fundraising Page (be sure to check your spam/promotions folders if you don’t see it). Follow the link in that email to access and personalize your page.

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How can I personalize my page?

The Mutt Strut website will walk you through the steps when you first claim your page to add photos and text. For step-by-step instructions to personalize your page, read more here.

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How do I share my fundraising page on social media?

Facebook: You can create a Facebook fundraiser that is linked up to your Mutt Strut page! Sign in to your fundraising page and click the “manage” button in the top right corner. Then, select the “Facebook” tab, then follow the prompts to create Facebook fundraiser that will include your picture, fundraiser info, and fundraising total.

Twitter: Click the social icons at the top of your fundraising page to share your fundraiser to your Twitter followers. You can also copy the web address of your page and paste it into a post.

Instagram: put the link in your bio and direct friends there in the caption of a post, or in your Instagram story.

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Can I collect cash or check donations to count toward my fundraising goal?

Yes! Mail donations with a note reading “Mutt Strut donation – [your name]” to apply it to your total, and send an email to muttstrut@phillypaws.org to let us know it’s on its way. Checks should be mailed to:

 

PAWS
Attn: Mutt Strut
100 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106



Or, drop off donations in person at our clinic facility at 2900 Grays Ferry Avenue. Enclose cash or check donations in an envelope labeled “Mutt Strut donation – [your name].”

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Can friends and family donate to my page via Venmo?

Yes! Supporters can donate directly to PAWS through our Venmo account (username: @phillypaws). Important: in order for us to add the donation to your fundraising total, make sure supporters include the note “Mutt Strut donation for [your name].” Read more here

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How can I add more pictures to my page?

Go to your fundraising page. If you aren’t logged in, click Log In. If you are logged in, you’ll see a “Manage” button at the top right corner of the page. Follow that button, then click “Details” to add photos. You can also add pictures in the “My Story” section. For further instructions, see this page.

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I can’t find the “manage” button to update my page.

You may need to log in first. Locate the “Login” button at the top of the page to enter your email address and password. Once you’re logged in, the “Manage” button will appear. For more detailed instructions, see this page.

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I’ve already registered. Can I join a team?

Yes! Log in to your fundraising page, click on “Join a Team,” and search for the team you’d like to join.

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How will I receive my fundraising prizes?

Participants will earn prizes based on the amount raised; your prizes will be included in your event bag when you pick it up. 

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Who can I reach out to if I have more questions?

Send us an email at muttstrut@phillypaws.org and we’ll get back to you!

See you October 24. . . wherever you are!