AHOSKIE – They are a source of security, comfort, and affection.

They offer physical, health and therapeutic benefits.

They are very capable of easing the pains of loneliness; offer a way to reduce stress; promote social interaction; and some studies have shown they can extend the lives of their owners.

And all they ask for in return is a warm bed to sleep, food and water, and, of course, unconditional love.

On Saturday, Sept. 27, pet owners from across the Roanoke-Chowan area are invited to treat their four-legged companions to a day held in honor of their furry friends.

PAWS of Hertford County will host PAWSFEST 2014 from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the all-purpose field located on Main Street behind the Town of Ahoskie gym (across from the Ahoskie Police Dept.).

“Love Beyond Words” is the theme of the day as humans celebrate the love of pets, past or present.

A 3K Dog Walk (people may participate without dogs) will begin at 10 a.m. To register for the Walk and start a fundraising page, visit www.firstgiving.com/pawsofhertfordcounty. Pre-registration gets you a “Love Beyond Words” tee shirt, bandana and magnet.

Other activities include games for kids and dogs, dog agility field, Muttminster family dog show (no pedigree necessary to enter, all in good fun, and not to be missed), music by The Moonshine Band, vendors, bake sale, silent auction and many more family- and dog-friendly activities.

All proceeds will provide direct assistance for PAWS of Hertford County, a volunteer-run, non-profit organization which has been working to rescue homeless, abused and neglected animals in the local community since 2006.

Admission is free for the entire family, dogs included (all dogs attending must be on a leash and current on their rabies vaccination). Each activity has its own ticket price.

For more information about PAWS of Hertford County, visit www.pawsofhertfordcounty.org.