2nd Annual Shaggy Shuffle Published May 17, 2016 By Senior Airman Kristoffer Kaubisch Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- In recognition of pet abuse month in May, the Family Advocacy Program is holding an event during wingman week. This is event is the 2nd Annual Shaggy Shuffle Community Walk, which raises awareness for domestic violence and pet abuse. The primary reason for the event is to recognize the correlation between pet abuse and domestic abuse. "When pet abuse is occurring, there is a strong likelihood that abuse is occurring between the people living in the home," said Laurel Grams, Outreach Program Manager and Family Advocate. "We want to let people know that there is a link between pet abuse and domestic abuse." The Shaggy Shuffle is a walk to raise awareness for pet abuse. It also teaches people who see pet abuse or they know of it going on, there is potential for other abuse to be going on in that home as well. "There will be treats and giveaways for every dog," Grams said. "Minot Community Homes will have refreshments for the dog owners, and the Youth Center will take care of the pools that have water for the dogs." There will also be contests for the dogs such as best smile, best dressed, longest ears, longest tail and biggest dog. There will be nine different categories. The winner of each category will receive a certificate, a treat bag and a flavored tennis ball. "You don't have to register for this, you just need to hang around at the dog park after the walk," Grams said. "There will also be an information table at the dog park about pet abuse. It is occurring during wingman week, so it provides a great opportunity for families to participate in a wingman event." The Shaggy Shuffle will be held on May 24th at 530 p.m. at the base dog park. For more information, call Family Advocacy at 701-723-5096.