After operating virtually for two years, the annual Furry 5K will return in-person on June 12 at Seward Park. The event will bring together pet owners, community members, and some of the cutest dogs in the city for a 3.1-mile run, walk or roll all in the name of animal care.

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The Furry 5K is hosted by the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF), the non-profit organization that supports the programs and initiatives of the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS). Funds in the past have gone toward everything from medical and behavioral animal care to supporting an animal pet food bank and remodeling space at the shelter to expand its capacity. Since the event was started by volunteers more than 20 years ago, the event has raised more than $1.2 million.

“We’re so pleased to reunite for the 23^rd Furry 5K and continue this rich tradition of helping animals in need,” SASF Board President Kara Main-Hester said.

Registration is now open for the event and all proceeds go to supporting animals at the City’s SAS, which is one of 16 divisions operated by the Department of Finance and Administrative Services. Every year, the shelter takes in thousands of stray and owner-surrendered animals and many are in need of a new start, lots of love and often significant vet and behavioral care.

This year’s Furry 5K is doubly special. The event falls on the 50^th anniversary of the shelter’s founding.

“Our Seattle Animal Shelter has provided 50 years of excellent service supporting our City’s pets, animals, and communities,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “There’s no better way to celebrate and build on this legacy than by joining the annual Furry 5K. I commend the shelter staff, volunteers, and everyone who’s helped make this event possible, demonstrating what it means to truly come together as One Seattle – pets and all. Here’s to a great run!”

Founded in 1982, SAS operates more like a way station than a terminal for pets in need. The shelter is supported by a team of volunteers and City employees.

“I’m so proud of our shelter team. Thanks to their work, more than 90% of animals that come through our shelter doors end up in forever homes. Shelter staff, with support from the foundation and incredible volunteers, have expanded access to animals and animal care in our region for over 50 years and this event builds on that incredible work,” said Calvin W. Goings, Director of FAS, which oversees the shelter.

Sign up for the Furry 5K now to take advantage of early-bird pricing and reserve your race bib, goody bag, and 2022 Furry 5K t-shirt. SASF is also offering a virtual “run/walk anywhere” option for those who want to join in on the fun from a favorite trail or neighborhood. After the race, stick around for a Pet-a-Palooza, which includes entertainment, festive music, awards and an interactive vendor area.

Event Details
Furry 5K
Sunday, June 12
Seward Park, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S
Runners begin race at 11:30 a.m. followed by walkers who will start at 11:40 a.m.

About the Seattle Animal Shelter
A division of the City’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services, the Seattle Animal Shelter annually provides care to thousands of animals. Founded 50 years ago, the shelter promotes safety and animal welfare through community engagement, resources, sheltering, adoption and a spay/neuter clinic.

About the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation
The Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation supports the programs and initiatives of the Seattle Animal Shelter by engaging the community, increasing awareness and raising funds. In 2010, SAS and a committed group of volunteers recognized that there were certain needs above and beyond what the City of Seattle could fund. To better address these needs, SASF was formed.

SASF is a non-profit organization run by a volunteer board that is dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of animals in the care of SAS. Thousands of dogs, cats and critters are helped every year and this support is made possible through generous donors and committed volunteers.