Dog Walks for Charity 2012

No matter the weather, your furry friend will always perk up when she hears the word “walk.”

Whether you live in the city or in the suburbs, going on a long walk with your dog is emotionally and physically beneficial for both. With these fundraising dog run/walks, you can keep your new year’s resolution to stay fit while making a difference. Usually no longer than 5K, these family friendly, fun events get you outdoors and in the company of like-minded animal lovers walking for charity.

Below is a list of upcoming run/walks benefiting animals around the country:

1) SPCA of Wake County K9- 3K Dog Walk, April 21 Moore Square, Raleigh, North Carolina   

For the past 12 years, the SPCA of Wake County has been raising money for saving pets. On its 13th year, the city of Raleigh will close its downtown streets to make way for the largest march of dogs in the city’s history. Participants can join teams to raise money, and can even get their business involved by setting up a company team. 

2) SPCA of Texas’ Strut Your Mutt, April 28 Fair Park, Dallas, Texas

Bring your tail wagging mutts for a 3K walk, run, or stroll through Fair Park for this fun charity event. The money raised will go towards rescue and care for abused pets, providing low-cost clinic services, and finding homes for the animals. Food, music, kids’ activities and plenty of booths with information will be available.

3) WCS Run for the Wild, April 28 Bronx Zoo, New York 

Take a walk on the wild side at the Bronx Zoo to raise funds for African lions on Wildlife Conservation Society’s 4th Annual 5K Run for the Wild. No dogs are allowed in the zoo, but feel free to bring your family for a fun day at the zoo filled with live music, food, and educational shows. Make sure to visit the lions and the rest of the animals that call the zoo home. 

4) VPI® K9K Pet Cancer Awareness Walk, June 10 Denver, Colorado; November (Date TBD) Long Beach, California

Come out and support the Animal Caner Foundation at Veterinary Pet Insurance's (VPI) Pet Cancer Awareness Walk! The  3K walk through Denver's Washington Park and in Long Beach had a fantastic showing of 300-500 people and their pets at last year's inaugural events and this year should be even stronger. 100% of the proceeds go towards the Animal Cancer Foundation which supports cancer treatment and prevention research for both humans and animals. All walk participants will receive a commemorative event T-Shirt, pet bandana and post-event refreshments.

Safety Tips:

• Practice over the four-week period leading up to the event so that both you and your dog are properly trained.
• Practice jogs on trails or other locations where people run with their dogs to acclimate your dog to running in a pack with distractions.
• Stay hydrated with water at start/finish and every 1/4 mile. Watch for signs of overheating. Watering holes are available at each race.
• Make sure to stop when the dog is lagging behind. Pay close attention to the energy and stress levels of your companion. Dragging is never allowed.
• Have proof of rabies vaccination handy.
• Dogs must be on leashes at all times. Retractable leashes are hazardous in a crowd.
• Inspect your dog's pads for any signs of cuts and wear. Veterinarians are available at each event.
• Don't forget to have fun!