In many households, dogs are members of the family.

We take our four-legged friends on vacation with us, we play games with them, we buy them toys and special treats and we are now able to take them to their own parks and dog-friendly restaurants (with outdoor seating).

Now, thanks to Bark for Life, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, dogs can become philanthropists.

Think of the canine version of Relay for Life and you have Bark for Life.

Dundalk will host a Bark for Life on May 5 at Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School.

The festival will include games, contests and demonstrations, according to organizer Judy Dick.

"We'll have a musical sit and stay, a dog/owner look-alike contest and a best kisser contest," Dick said.

A small walking loop will surround a demonstration ring and humans and canines will walk laps, similar to the format of regular cancer awareness relays, she said.

Entertainment will be provided and volunteer entertainers are still being recruited.

Participants who would like a T-shirt and bandana are requested to donate a minimum of $25.

T-shirts are limited. Dick recommends registering online to guarantee a shirt.

The event is a fundraiser for the Heart and Sole Relay team, and all proceeds will benefit Dundalk's Relay for Life, set for June 2 on the Dundalk campus of The Community College of Baltimore County.

For more information or to volunteer at the event, call Judy Dick, 443-956-8730, or send an email to judydick@yahoo.com.

Event details:

What: Bark for Life

When: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 5, rain or shine (registration begins at 8:30 a.m.)

Where: Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School, 8001 N. Boundary Road

Info: 443-956-8730; judydick@yahoo.com