To Do: PAWS Mutt Strut at The Navy Yard

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Dogs are many things: cuddly, smart, cute, an adorable form of heat during the colder months … the list goes on and on. And, it turns out, they are also good for our health.

Studies show that when a person pets a dog, their body releases oxytocin, also known as “the cuddle hormone.” Seriously, I didn’t make that up. Oxytocin helps to reduce blood pressure and decreases cortisol levels. Some doctors even suggest that having a dog as a pet is a more effective anti-depressant than Prozac.

So, where can you get a fix of this totally natural happy-drug? The PAWS Mutt Strut, of course!

On October 19th, Philadelphia’s largest no-kill animal shelter is holding its seventh annual walk at The Navy Yard. But this is not your typical walk. There will be a dog agility course, a pit bull kissing booth (yes, please), a talent contest and many more events for the pooches. And for us humans, live music and a bevy of food trucks, including Pitruco Pizza, Calle Del Sabor and Say Cheese.

There will be tons of adoptable pups at the event and everyone is welcome, with or without a dog. If you don’t have your own mutt to strut, you can even “rent” a PAWS dog for the day. Who knows? With all of those health benefits, you might decide to keep him! To help in the effort to make Philadelphia a no-kill city, register for the event here.

$25 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under; October 19th, check-in/registration begins at 9 a.m., walk begins at 11 a.m., The Navy Yard, 4747 South Broad Street, Philadelphia.

>> Have a health or fitness event you’d like to share with Be Well Philly readers? Email eleaman@phillymag.com with details.