BOARDMAN, Ore.-The first annual Pet Run and Walk 5k is set for September 6 in Boardman Marina Park.
Boardman Park and Recreation District is partnering with Pet Rescue Humane Society of Eastern Oregon and Fuzz Ball Animal Rescue for the 5k race and same-day adoption event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“It’s a fun event for the community to come to, and another way for Boardman to utilize beautiful Marina Park,” said Ariana Andrews, the Adult Recreation Coordinator for the Boardman Park and Recreation District.
Participants, both human and animal, can run or walk as much of the race as they want, although the top three competitors who finish with their furry friends will receive medals. Animals available for adoption will be at the race and will walk/run the course with volunteers.
“With this fun adoption event, we’re bringing awareness to these shelters,” said Andrews. “People will see the shelters, learn about their volunteers and the work they do, and hopefully we can get pets adopted.”
Registration for the Pet Run and Walk is $35 and includes lunch, an award, and a pet swag item. All proceeds benefit Pet Rescue Society of Eastern Oregon and Fuzz Ball. Registration is open online or by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer.
Prizes will also be awarded to pets in different categories, such as tiniest, fluffiest and largest, and all walkers/runners will receive a pet swag item and participation medals.
“All pets are welcome to participate, the more outrageous the better,” said Andrews, who is aware of a chicken and possibly a tortoise that will be joining the race.
A free lunch will be provided, and a group photo will be taken of participants and their pets. Food trucks and a pet treat vendor will also be set up in Marina Park for the event.
Those who can’t register for the race are still welcome to attend and cheer on runners and walkers, while supporting local animal shelters. The Pet Rescue Humane Society of Eastern Oregon and Fuzz Ball are also still in need of volunteers for the event.
Those interested in helping should contact recinfo@boardmanorprd.gov.
For Andrews, the first annual Pet Run and Walk 5k is about community involvement and shining a spotlight on local animal shelters, but she’s already thinking of how to grow the event, including possibly adding a dog show or pet parade next year.
“Seeing people complete the race and have fun, having even one pet show up, or getting one animal adopted will be a success,” said Andrews.
All pets must be leashed or in pet containers during the race. Pets can be carried but may not be ridden during the race.
