Deep Run Park to host in-person version of 19th Annual Dog Jog and 5K Run March 19-21

The Richmond SPCA is remaking the Dog Jog and 5K Run for 2021 and will host the event in person at Deep Run Park March 19-21 while also offering participants the chance to run the distance wherever they would like.

Participants may opt to run, walk or jog with their dogs on the official Dog Jog and 5K Run courses at Deep Run Park or to use their own courses in the RaceJoy app and take part from anywhere.

“The way the community comes together in support of homeless animals each year at our Dog Jog and 5K Run demonstrates the compassion and love RVA has for dogs and cats in need,” said Richmond SPCA Chief Executive Officer Tamsen Kingry. “Although the ongoing public health crisis required changes to how it will be held, we wanted to give fans of this event options to participate safely while furthering the lifesaving work they value so much.”

Funds raised by Dog Jog and 5K Run participants will benefit approximately 4,000 homeless animals who will be sheltered at the Richmond SPCA this year, as well as the lifesaving programs and services the nonprofit provides for pets and people, including low-cost veterinary care at the Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital. The organization’s fundraising goal for 2021 is $50,000.

Registration fees for the event will include several new items to create an interactive self-guided experience for participants and their pets. The first 500 registered participants will receive:

• a limited-edition Dog Jog and 5K Run cotton short-sleeved T-shirt;
• a Dog Jog and 5K Run medal and pet tag;
• a goodie bag filled with gifts from the event’s sponsors;
• a personal fundraising page to raise donations for pets in need;
• free access to the RaceJoy app for race guidance, time tracking and eligibility for 5K Finisher prizes .

Through the early-bird registration deadline of Feb. 28, registration is $35 to sign up for the one-mile Dog Jog and/or the 5K race, which can be done with or without a dog. Free signup is available for those wishing to fundraise only as “cat nap” participants.

Holiday Barn Pet Resorts is sponsoring the event.

For details or to register, visit http://richmondspca.org/dogjog .