Richmond SPCA’s 22nd Annual Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party slated for March 23
The Richmond SPCA’s signature Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party returns this spring on Saturday, March 23, 2024. The family- and pet-friendly event is presented by Holiday Barn Pet Resorts and will be held at the nonprofit’s humane center on Hermitage Road.
The local nonprofit has grown its annual Dog Jog and 5K to include an afternoon with live music, headlined this year by local cover band Sold Separately. The block party features a marketplace with more than 50 local vendors and artisans, food trucks and alcoholic drinks. Admission to the block party is free, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Moore Subaru.
“Over the past 22 years, this event has become a significant source of support for our programs as well as a gathering of community to celebrate our animal companions,” said Richmond SPCA Chief Executive Officer Tamsen Kingry. “We count on seeing so many adopters, members of the running community, family, friends and of course their dogs. With everyone’s help, we’ll meet our goal of raising $207,000 at this year’s Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party.”
Funds raised will benefit more than 18,000 animals served by the Richmond SPCA this year, including approximately 4,000 homeless dogs and cats that the organization shelters and rehabilitates before adoption. The nonprofit provides lifesaving services for pets and people, including low-cost veterinary care, a free behavior helpline, training classes and humane education for children.
To meet the fundraising goal, funds will be raised through sponsorships, peer-to-peer fundraising and registration fees from participants in the chipped-timed 5K and the leisurely 1-mile Dog Jog. Each dog who is signed up for the Dog Jog can bring along multiple two-legged friends and family. Early bird pricing is available through March 1 and includes $10 off the $45 per-event registration fees. The first 1,000 race registrants will receive a T-shirt, medal and other items in a goodie bag filled with swag from event sponsors. This year’s shirt is being designed by Richmond-based illustrator Bailey Sullivan and features the Richmond SPCA’s 2024 mascot Irving.
The event timeline includes activities for pets and people of all ages throughout the day:
- 5K, 10 a.m. (people only)
- Little Paws Kids Fun Run, 11 a.m. (free for kids 4-10 years old)
- Dog Jog, 11:30 a.m.
- Free Block Party, noon to 5 p.m.
For more information or to register, please visit richmondspca.org/dogjog.
Please direct media inquiries to our communications department.
