It is my personal belief that puppies are the first step to world peace. Everybody loves puppies. A person could have a bad back, no money and a stolen car, but if they saw a cute little puppy running toward them, they would immediately smile, regardless of the situation they were in.

   If you love dogs as much as I do, then you should come out to Philadelphia PAWS’ third annual Mutt Strut on Oct. 31. The Mutt Strut will consist of dogs and their people hiking a scenic 1.5 mile path through FDR Park to raise funds and awareness for PAWS’ efforts to save the city’s homeless, abused, abandoned and unwanted animals.

    If you don’t have a mutt to strut,  it isn’t a problem! You can still register and participate in a great cause or “rent” a PAWS dog for the day and make a new friend.

    The registration fee to enter is $25 per person ($10 for children 12 and under).

   All participants will receive a PAWS eco-bag and a dog bandana on the day of the event. You will also be eligible to win prizes as you earn money for your furry frinds! If you earn $100, you get a PAWS T-shirt. If you earn $250, you get a fleece blanket, and if you raise $500, you’ll win a $25 gift certificate to PAWS Adoption Center/Pet Supply. If you really go all out and you earn $1,000, you’ll get your choice of either an iPod Shuffle or a $100 gift certificate to your choice of dozens of Philadelphia shops and restaurants.

   Is your family looking to adopt? Dozens of PAWS dogs waiting for loving homes will be  on hand to meet and play with.

   For more information, please visit www.phillypaws.org or e-mail muttstrut@phillypaws.org.