MYRTLE BEACH — Man’s best friend will be front and center Saturday at the American Cancer Society’s Bark for Life event in Little River.

Similar to Relay for Life, supporters donate, raise money and walk for the fight against cancer, according to a press release. The difference is this race allows dogs to join in the fight.

Melany Mader, community manager for the South Atlantic Division of the American Cancer Society, said there are 20 individuals and their pets registered for the walk, which will take place at Vereen Memorial Garden in Little River. They’re expecting an additional 50 to 75 to register Saturday morning.

“Most of the money is actually raised the day of the event because of the day of registration and the auction, but our goal is $5,000,” Mader said via email.

This is the second annual Bark for Life in Horry County, Mader added. Last year, $3,800 was raised.

Bark for Life was previously attempted in Myrtle Beach, but holding it during the summer proved to be unsuccessful, Mader said. It was a few years ago that Vereen Garden officials contacted her about doing a walk for cancer support. There, she saw several people their dogs, and the idea hit to revive Bark for Life and hold it there.

Mader said they had a much better response last year because the walk wasn’t in the summer.

For those interested in participating, Vereen Gardens is at 2250 Hwy. 179 in Little River. Early registration is $15 per dog or $20 on the day of the event.

Day-of registration and auction will start at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by opening ceremonies at 10:30 a.m.

To register, go to www.relayforlife.org/barknmbsc or call the CB Berry Community Center at Vereen Gardens at 249-4157.

Cleaning up Horry County’s roads

The Keep Horry County Beautiful Committee is partnering with the Coastal Carolina Association of Realtors to host a roadside litter cleanup event on Saturday, according to a press release.

It will take place from 10 a.m. to noon along George Bishop Parkway and Fantasy Harbour Boulevard in the Myrtle Beach area.

Registration will be at 211 George Bishop Pkwy., which is the parking lot at the entrance between the old Freestyle Music Park and Beach Church.

For more information, contact Heather Tenney at (843) 839-8082 or heather@ccarsc.org.

Contact reporter BRAD DICKERSON at 626-0301.