Stand up for black dogs on Sunday

It’s a known thing — black dogs (and cats) are often overlooked, and are the last to get adopted from animal shelters. No one’s really sure why — whether it’s harder to take a good picture of a creature with black fur, or whether people think they’re meaner because of their color. Who knows? Whatever the reason, none of them is true.

Diane Ayres, passionate local animal activist and director of SNIP (Spay Neuter Idaho Pets) is working to combat “black dog syndrome,” and get the good word out that black animals are as charming as caramel-colored ones, red ones, white ones, speckly ones, grey ones, etc.

You (and your black dog, if you have one) can help, too, by showing up at the Black Dog Walk, 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 1 at the Military Reserve Dog Park, 750 Mountain Cove Rd., Boise. The walk is free, just meant to raise awareness. No one will ask you for money, though you can buy a cool black dog t-shirt at cost, and your dog will get a free bandanna. Meridian Valley Animal Shelter, Northwest Animal Companions and other rescue groups and shelters will have black dogs available for adoption.

Need more information? Diane Ayres: 336-8709.

Guitar Center food drive

Boise's local Guitar Center is hosting a food drive beginning Sunday, Nov. 1

As a special thanks, anyone who donates a non-perishable item will receive a coupon for 10 percent off their next Guitar Center purchase.

Go online for a full list of participating food banks and Guitar Center locations, available Sunday.