Please join us on Sunday, October 4th, for MCHA's 31st Annual Run for the Animals presented by The Dog House!
Learn more & register at 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 2026, we're introducing separate start times for runners and walkers! The course starts at Karst Farm Park and loops through the Monroe County Fairgrounds. The awards ceremony and sponsor booths are now located near the start/finish line, making it easier for participants and families to celebrate together—and for faster results posting! After the awards, stick around for the raffles and fan-favorite pet contests. You don't have to be registered in the 5K to participate in the raffle and pet contests!
This event is so important to MCHA and our ability to provide 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 more. 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 3
10:00 AM–12:00 PM & 5:00–7:00 PM: Preregistered Packet Pick-up at Karst Farm Park Commons Bldg
Sunday, October 4
8:00 AM: Packet Pick-up & Onsite Registration Opens
9:15 AM: Registration Closes, Trainer-led Group Stretch
9:30 AM: 5K Run Begins
9:35 AM: 5K Walk Begins
10:30 AM: 5K Run/Walk Awards Ceremony
11:00 AM: Pet Contests & Raffle Winners Announced
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 Male & Top Female 13-17 years
Top Male & Top Female 18-24 years
Top Male & Top Female 25-29 years
Top Male & Top Female 30-39 years
Top Male & Top Female 40-49 years
Top Male & Top Female 50-59 years
Top Male & Top Female 60+ years
Top 3 Canine 5K
Important Notice for Canine Participants: As required by the state of Indiana, all dogs must be up to date on the rabies vaccination. In addition, only spayed/neutered dogs are permitted to participate. (Visit monroehumane.org for information on Spay/Neuter Assistance.) 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:
PRESENTING SPONSOR: The 31st 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 Parks and Recreation & Monroe County Fairgrounds
SILVER SPONSORS: German American Bank & Slotegraaf Niehoff P.C.
BRONZE SPONSORS: IU Credit Union & Smithville
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