Healthy Hounds, a weight-loss charity contest benefiting the Humane Society of Central Oregon, is seeking participants for a 10-week exercise program sponsored by Pawsitive Strides, Bend Pet Express and the Athletic Club of Bend.

Registration is open for 50 competitors who can compete alone or in a team with a dog. Registration is limited to 50 people; the registration deadline is 5 p.m. Saturday. The entrance fee is $30 and includes nutrition and exercise tips, behavior modification information for a pet, an embroidered leash, a T-shirt, starter food and entry into a 3K dog walk scheduled for June 25 at the Athletic Club of Bend. (The walk is also open to the public. The entry fee is $25.) Winners of the weight-loss challenge will be announced at the walk.

Kristin Wolter, a physical rehabilitation technician at Pawsitive Strides, says the campaign is intended to bring awareness to pet obesity.

“I see the impact of extra weight, and if people realize how much two or three pounds makes on a 35-pound dog, they might be more inclined to pay more attention to their dogs’ exercise routine and body condition.”

Contact: www.pawsitive-strides-rehab.com.