By MATT PIKE
The 12th annual walk or run for the paws 5k is coming up next weekend benefitting the St. Joseph Friends of the Animal Shelter and its efforts.
The fundraiser is the largest fundraising event for the organization. Melanie Barnes with Friends says what makes this a well-attended fundraiser is it comes right at the time people want to be outside more often
"It’s a great event, it’s dog friendly, or I should say pet friendly it’s not just dogs and certainly we have a lot of sponsors and participants who have other pets as well, but it’s that perfect time of year for spring,” Barnes says on the KFEQmunnity show. “I do think health and wellness in general for humans is becoming a more popular topic, people care about it, people are interested in their health and well-being, so a 5k whether you’re running or walking and getting outside is a great way to promote health for humans, and then also the fact that it’s pet friendly.”
The race on April 11th is a pet friendly event that gives people the opportunity to walk or run from in front of the Bode Ice Arena, even competitively if you would like.
Friends President Jen Kline says there are prizes for those that choose to do the 5k timed
"There’s a category for kids and adolescents too, so if they want to compete they’re welcome to be a part of that,” Kline says.
Barnes adds that with it being pet friendly, there's also a competition for pets if they choose to compete
"Category for dogs too, so if your dog's participate, we do give away first, second, and third place to those dogs who actually run and register, so that’s always a fun event,” Barnes explains. “I always see a few people running with their dogs and whenever I stand at the finish line and am clapping, I’m just like whooo first dog, second dog!”
Barnes says the event will begin bright and early next Saturday at 8am with vendors on hand, including Hazels and several others
"Companion Canines and Pawsitively Pet Parlor will be there, Creatures by Theresa she’s been out there numerous years, this is something I wanted to mention as far as sometimes it’s beyond dogs and cats, Creatures by Theresa always has a couple of fun small critters for the little kids to see and get exposure to, so that’s always a fun one” Barnes says. “Herding Hearts Resq, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hazel’s, and then obviously Friends of the Animal Shelter will have booths and some other fun things to do.”
The race begins at 9am on April 11th. Vendors and the start of the race will be in the parking lot across from the Bode Ice Arena and Phil Welch Stadium. The route goes up to Bartlett Park with a turnaround point back to the start.
You can register online to participate in the walk. You can pick up your race materials the day before the event at Riber Bluff Brewery or on the day of.
You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.