11th annual race to benefit shelter animals returns in April
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph’s annual Run/Walk for the Paws 5k returns Saturday, April 12, and time is running out to be guaranteed an event T-shirt.
Participants signing up before March 26 will pay $30 and get a T-shirt that can be picked up by the morning of the event. Registrations after that date will cost $35 and are not guaranteed a T-shirt.
Money raised from the event will go towards medical costs and adoption specials.
“Any time we put on adoption specials when the shelter gets full, Friends of the Animal Shelter is picking up the other part of the cost when we reduce those prices,” race director and volunteer Aubrey Swofford said.
The race will start at 9 a.m. in the parking lot across from Bode Ice Arena at 2500 Southwest Parkway.
Dogs that are friendly and have up-to-date rabies vaccinations are encouraged to join the event.
“I would say about half of the people there brought dogs with them so it is a lot of fun,” Swofford said. “It’s just great to see the community come together and support us. It’s just a good time, everyone is in good spirits, it is fun to see all the people with their dogs.”
Pet-related businesses and organizational booths will be open before and after the event.
Awards for first, second and third place will be given to each age group. Last year, Swofford said about 470 people participated.
To sign up, visit runsignup.com/runforpaws.
