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Taking a walk with your pet could have some great benefits next month.

The Mower County Humane Society began taking pledges last week for its 15th Walk For Animals, which takes place at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Mill Pond.

It couldn’t come at a better time for humane society volunteers. MCHS has a record number of cats: about 115.

Too many cats at the shelter isn’t surprising to MCHS volunteer Kelly Rush, however. The shelter gets full every summer. but this year’s a little different. Not only does the humane society have about 115 cats, but there’s several living at the Austin Vet Clinic who will come to the shelter once a few kitties are adopted.

“We’re definitely full,” Rush said.

Donations are up a bit compared to last year, but the humane society still isn’t pulling in enough money to cover all their costs for the year. That’s where the Walk For Animals comes in: It’s the biggest fundraiser of the year for MCHS volunteers.

Pledge forms are available at Austin Veterinary Clinic, Double K Specialty, Austin Public Library and the MCHS shelter. The top four pledge earners will win grand prizes, while prizes will be given out for participants who earn $50, $100, $150, and $200 respectively.

Taking care of kitty

Mower County Humane Society volunteers will also host the Minnesota Spay/Neuter Assistance Plan vehicle on Sept. 10 at the shelter parking lot. The vehicle will be there all day to spay and neuter pets of eligible low-income residents.

Female cats will cost $20 to fix and male cats will cost $35. Dogs under 50 lbs cost $60, and it costs $70 to fix dogs over 50 lbs.

For eligibility requirements and to register for the clinic, call 612-720-8236 or visit www.mnsnap.org.