Sarasota HOGs ride for the dogs

The cats weren't the only things purring March 12 at the Humane Society of Sarasota County.

Dozens of motorcycles crowded the HSSC parking lot of the 18th annual St. Patty's Day Poker Run sponsored by Sarasota Harley Owners Group, their engines humming. 

"There's always so much excitement around this event," event founder Donna DeFant said. 

In its earlier years, bikers registered for the event offsite, but DeFant said it was important to move registration to the Humane Society. 

"We want them to have the awareness of what this facility is all about," DeFant said. 

But one feature in particular encouraged DeFant to bring the event registration to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. 

"Everybody loves seeing the dogs and cats," she said.