A Paws-itive Impact: Summer fun that supports Maine humane societies and pet rescues

WRITTEN BY MARISSA DONOVAN

Enjoy some fun in the sun while also supporting a good cause this summer. These events and businesses are not only a tail-wagging good time, they also support local humane societies and pet rescues.

Tails & Tunes at the Kennebec Valley Humane Society in Augusta

On Sunday, June 2 at 2 p.m. Kennebec Valley Humane Society will host a celebration at their new location at The Nancy Shuman Animal Shelter on Leighton Road in Augusta. Tails & Tunes will be a jam-packed event featuring a lineup of musicians, food trucks and beverage vendors, a bounce house, and more fun for the family! To purchase tickets and find out more about this dog and family friendly event, visit give.pethavenlane.org .

Woofstock in Waterville

On Saturday, July 20 from 2-7 p.m. the Humane Society Waterville Area will be hosting their third annual Woofstock Music Festival Fundraiser at 100 Webb Road in Waterville. Aside from live music and other fun activities planned for the whole family, there will also be many food trucks and vendors. Follow Humane Society Waterville Area’s Facebook page for upcoming details.

2nd Annual Blackstream Custom Cycles Golf Tournament in Hermon

On Saturday, August 10 at 8 a.m., Hermon Meadow Golf Club will host a golf tournament to benefit the Bangor Humane Society. Funds will go toward the many animals and operations of the BHS. There will also be games, prizes and a silent auction. Visit donations.bangorhumane.org for more info.

Wienerfest in Belfast

On Sunday, Sept. 8, Wienerfest will celebrate its 19th year of having dachshund lovers unite in Belfast to support PAWS Animal Adoption Center. Enjoy a parade, costume contest, and race. The festival will be held at Steamboat Landing Park at 34 Commercial St. in Belfast from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit mainewienerfest.com .

Wicky Ralph’s Ice Cream and Mini Golf in Acton

Mini golf and ice cream go hand-in-hand, but at Wicky Ralph’s it goes hand-in-paw. This Acton seasonal attraction is great for summer birthday parties, a date night, or a night out with friends. Each purchase of an ice cream or mini golf game goes towards the ongoing operations of Grammy Rose Dog Rescue and Sanctuary, which helps rescue and rehome dogs from kill shelters across the country. For operating hours and ice cream flavors, visit their Facebook page .

Thrift Shopping at The Ark Animal Shelter in Blue Hill

Thrift shopping is a year-round activity, but it’s twice as fun with some ice coffee and free time on your hands. Right across from the Blue Hill Fairgrounds is a small thrift shop that helps fund spay/neuter procedures for the animals at The Ark Animal Shelter located in Cherryfield. The Ark Animal Shelter Thrift Store has antique kitchenware, holiday decorations, pet-related necessities, home decor, and other findings worth browsing through. For hours of operation and new items for sale, visit their website .