Two charitable events focused on man’s best friend came together for a fund raising event at Woodland Park Sunday.

Collinsville Fire Department mascot Sparky poses with Mike Harris (pictured on left) and Lt. Frank Arnold / Photo by Roger Starkey

Logan O’Donnell poses proudly with Sadie while younger sister Lilli peeks in to the picture / Photo by Roger Starkey

Bark For Life, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, and the Animal Rescue & Relief Foundation, a non-profit organization in southwestern Illinois that provides first aid and treatment for sick or injured stray animals, teamed to host the event.

Dogs and humans participated in a walk your owner trail around the park, shopped for canine accessories, posed for doggy portraits and listened to the band Social Distraction. Bark For Life organizer Amanda Kernan estimated that 25-30 dogs signed up for the events.

There were also dogs available for adoption, for those who came to the event in search of their new best friend. Sparky, of the Collinsville Fire Department was on hand to pose for pictures and spread good will.

The event was the first ever for both Bark For Life and AARF in the Park in Collinsville. Bark For Life has been an American Cancer Society fundraiser for just a couple of years, Kernan said. Sunday’s event was the only the second in the area.

AARF organizer Linda Rayho said the fundraiser is one of many for the organization that has been helping strays since 1995. According to their website, the group hosts the annual Arts and Auction Event at the Caseyville Township Hall and partners with HALO (Helping Animals Find Loving Owners), in October, for their Annual Wine and Howl Event held in St. Clair County.

The American Cancer Society’s 2014 Relay For Life of Collinsville will take place on June 13 at Collinsville Middle School beginning at 6 p.m.