15th annual Furry 5K Fun Run and Walk set for June 8Still time to register for Seattle Animal Shelter’s event at Seward Park

SEATTLE – There is still time to register for the Seattle Animal Shelter’s 15th annual Furry 5K run/walk, taking place on Sunday, June 8, 2014 at Seward Park. Each year, the fun run attracts thousands of two-legged runners accompanied by hundreds of four-legged runners. All proceeds directly support the shelter’s “Help the Animals Fund.” To register or for more information, visit www.Furry5K.com.

“The Furry 5K has been a wonderful event for Seattle Animal Shelter’s orphaned animals,” said Shelter Director Don Jordan. “Because of the generous Furry 5K participants, we have been able to provide veterinary care to thousands of orphaned animals and have been able to guarantee that all adoptable animals will find loving new homes.”

Shelter staff anticipates that this year’s Furry 5K will draw more than 3,000 people and 1,500 furry canines. The race will begin at 10 a.m. and will be followed by Pet-a-Palooza, a partnership with CBS Radio to feature entertainment, festive music, awards and an interactive vendor area. Admission to Pet-a-Palooza is free. The Furry 5K is one of the few races in the Puget Sound area that encourages participants to run or walk with their dogs.

The “Help the Animals Fund” was created in 1977 to pay for life-saving veterinary care for sick, injured and abused animals at the shelter. As the shelter’s veterinary needs grew, volunteers started the Furry 5K in 1999 to raise money for the fund and to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership. Last year the fund covered nearly $150,000 in veterinary bills.

The Seattle Animal Shelter cares for approximately 4,000 stray and owner-surrendered animals each year. Many of these animals arrive sick and injured from living on the streets; others are seized from abusive or neglectful owners.
The Seattle Animal Shelter is located at 2061 15th Ave. W., about a mile south of the Ballard Bridge. It is open for adoptions and licensing from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday. For more information, call 206-386-7387 or visit the website at www.seattleanimalshelter.org.