Fast and Furriest 5K Run/Walk Returns to Colorado State University April 27 to Help Pets in Need

The annual Colorado State University Fast and the Furriest 5K Run/Walk, which benefits the Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s Companion Care Fund for people who can’t afford care for their pets, will be April 27.

The event is a 5k and begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $25, which includes a T-shirt. The event will also feature a 1K fun run for kids, youth 12 and under are free (youth shirts are available for purchase for $7). To register for the race, go to http://www.runningguru.com//EventInformation.asp?SourceCode=Map&eID=4284

To volunteer for or donate to the event, contact Becky Brandenburg at rabrand@lamar.colostate.edu.

The 5K begins in the Oval and follows a flat course around campus. The top three winners overall will receive awards, as will the top three runners with pets. In addition, fun pet awards will be presented to the biggest, the furriest and the most unique pets.

“It’s a great event for the community to come together and for families to enjoy,” said Becky Brandenburg, event coordinator. “It’s a fun event that also helps animals.”

The event will also include activities such as a doggie/runner expo, chip timing, doggie demos, and a 1K fun run for kids. Fort Collins businesses will showcase products including dog treats and toys. Food, music and face painting also will be available on race day.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Companion Care Fund, which helps community members with financial need pay for medical procedures for their pets. These procedures are performed at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital for pets that might not otherwise receive the treatment they need.

“The fund is a last resort for pet owners who need treatments for their pets and really can’t afford it,” said Brandenburg. “It gives them a place to go.”

The event is organized by students from the Professional Veterinary Medicine (PVM) program at CSU. A portion of the proceeds will also go to the Class of 2015 PVM scholarship fund.

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