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As fast as two — or four — legs will carry
Humane Society to host Pet Day 5k this Saturday
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
 Click here to enlarge this photo Submitted Photo
Runners, walkers and four-legged friends leave the starting line at the Third Annual Pet Day 5k Run and Walk last year on Solomons Island. This year’s fundraising event to benefit the Humane Society of Calvert County will take place on Saturday, May 20, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church on Solomons Island.
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‘‘It’s to raise money so we can pay for medical bills and whatever else we need for animals in our care,” said Jody Shaver, a volunteer with the humane society and a coordinator of the run. ‘‘It’s our biggest fundraiser each year.”
Hosted by the Humane Society of Calvert County and the Chesapeake Bay Running Club the fourth annual race proves to be an exciting one, as weather forecasts look promising.
Shaver said the local humane society chapter is still gaining popularity. ‘‘A lot of people don’t know about us,” she said.
The group works out of Fishing Creek Kennel in Sunderland and focuses on adopting out pets. They have about 80 animals under their care currently; about one-quarter of the potential pets are kept at the kennel and the rest are fostered out among the employees and volunteers of the ‘‘no-kill organization.”
Kristy Horrocks of Dunkirk has been an employee and volunteer with the humane society for more than four years.
‘‘The race helps the homeless animals that we’re trying to find homes for and we’re in search for funds,” she said. ‘‘We’re hoping for over 100 [runners] this year. Last year we got really close, hopefully we’re have over 150 ... It’s only our fourth year, so we’re still growing.”
Horrocks, who owns one dog and two cats herself, said the humane society helps animals that might otherwise not make it.
The group’s continuing mission includes improving the community for animals and people by sheltering and protecting animals from harm; placing them into caring, responsible environments; increasing awareness through humane education and community outreach; endeavoring to reduce animal overpopulation and to eliminate cruelty; serving as an advocate for animals by promoting humane standards; and enhancing the relationship between animals and people.
Established in 1976 for the prevention of cruelty to animals, the Humane Society of Calvert County provides affordable spay-neuter services, promotes humane education and foster companion animals for adoption. The group is staffed completely by volunteers and is financially supported by the United Way of Calvert County.
Shaver said that Solomons offers a great location for the race. Its scenic beauty is a natural attraction as the route takes runners and pets along the Patuxent River.
‘‘A lot of runners seem to like to come by there,” Shaver said.
Runners can register beginning at 7 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea church, where the race begins at 8:30 a.m. The age groups for the race awards are 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49,and 50-59.
The first 100 runners to enter will receive a T-shirt and race packet; the first 25 dog participants will receive a doggy bag with special treats.
All dogs must be current on distemper and rabies vaccinations. Owners must bring shot records or a veterinarian certificate for proof of vaccinations.
All dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Owners are asked to use good judgment regarding temperament of pets so that this event will be enjoyable for everyone.
‘‘It’s a great organization, and the race is lots of fun,” Shaver said.
The top three male and female runners in the different age categories will receive awards, as well as the overall first place male and female. The top three male and female walkers will also get an award.
And not to leave out the four-legged runners, the first three dogs to finish the race will get special awards.
There will be plenty of bagels and fruit along with water and hydrating drinks available free to the entrants.
‘‘We’ve got bananas and strawberries this year,” Horrocks said.
Like Shaver, she said that they are trying to grow the event by adding new elements and attracting new runners each year. Several student members from the Huntingtown High School humane society plan to volunteer to help run the race.
‘‘Some of them will be dressed up as dogs and cats showing people where to go,” Horrocks said with a laugh.
Last year the non-profit raised about $6,000 from the race — in large part thanks to sponsors. With 28 sponsors this year and twice as many pre-registrants, organizers are hoping for an even bigger net.
‘‘It’s a lot of work that goes into this. Hopefully it’ll all pay off,” she said.
E-mail Jesse Yeatman at jyeatman@somdnews.com.
