Please join us for the 30th Annual Run for the Animals on Sunday, October 5th!
Event website: monroehumane.org/5k
Run for the Animals is a timed 5K run/walk at Karst Farm Park, with a portion of the course winding through the Monroe County Fairgrounds. All of the proceeds benefit the programs and services of Monroe County Humane Association.
New in 2025, we’re thrilled to partner with Perfect Timing Race Management, known for their work with major local events like Hoosiers Outrun Cancer and the Hoosier Half Marathon. The course will once again start at Karst Farm Park and loop through the Monroe County Fairgrounds, but this year, we’re making it easier for participants and families to celebrate together. The awards ceremony and sponsor booths will now be located near the start/finish line, making for a more centralized, festive atmosphere—and faster results posting!
While Barktoberfest will no longer take place in the field near registration, we’re keeping the fun alive with raffles and fan-favorite contests, including the fastest peanut butter licker and best pet costume, now happening right after the awards ceremony.
This event is so important to MCHA and our ability to provide these programs and services that would otherwise not exist in our community, including accessible veterinary care, spay/neuter assistance, crisis housing, emergency pet food & supply pantry, street outreach, and therapy animal program. All this and much more is only possible because of the generous support of our community! MCHA is a private 501c3 non-profit that receives no funding from national organizations or tax dollars.
We anticipate welcoming hundreds of runners, walkers, and canine friends to this event! Don’t miss this great opportunity to support animal welfare in our community!
EVENT SCHEDULE:
Saturday, October 4
5:00–7:00 PM: Pre-registered Race Packet Pick-up at Karst Farm Park Commons Bldg
Sunday, October 5
8:00 AM: Packet Pick-up & Onsite Registration Opens
9:20 AM: Registration Closes
9:30 AM: 5K Run/Walk Begins
10:30 AM: 5K Run/Walk Awards Ceremony
11:00 AM: Pet Costume Contest, Fastest Peanut Butter Licker Contest, & Raffle Winners Announced
EXPANDED 5K AWARD CATEGORIES:
Top 3 Overall Men's 5K
Top 3 Overall Women's 5K
Top 3 Youth (12 & under) Male 5K
Top 3 Youth (12 & under) Female 5K
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 13-17 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 18-24 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 25-29 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 30-39 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 40-49 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 50-59 years
Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female 60+ years
Top Canine 5K
Important Notice for Dog Participants: As required by the state of Indiana, all dogs must be up to date on the rabies vaccination. All dogs must remain on a leash at all times during the event. For safety reasons, retractable leashes are not permitted—only standard, non-retractable leashes are allowed. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and fun event for everyone!
👏👏👏 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
The 30th Annual Run for the Animals is presented by The Dog House, offering cage-free boarding in a cozy, home-like environment. With 24-hour staffing and personalized care, The Dog House strives to be your pet’s home away from home. Learn more at trydoghouse.com.
GOLD SPONSORS: Monroe County Fairgrounds, Monroe County Parks & Recreation, Shine Insurance Agency LLC
SILVER SPONSORS: Bloomington Indiana Kennel Club, German American Bank, Luke Miller Photography, Mad 4 My Dog, Pizza X, Raising Cane's, RCV Roofing, and Scout's Honor
BRONZE SPONSORS: ABR Print, College Mall Veterinary Hospital, Fresh Thyme, IU Credit Union, Remotely Helpful Services LLC, RootAdvisors, Studio K-9, Tic-Tac Toes Mobile Pet Care Services, and Town and Country Veterinary Clinic
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