Richmond SPCA's 24th Annual Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party

Join thousands of animal lovers for the 24th Annual Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party, presented by Holiday Barn Pet Resorts and benefiting the Richmond SPCA! Participate in person or select the "run anywhere" option. 

On Saturday, March 21, expect a day packed  with fun activities for the whole family. The day begins with a chip-timed 5K (3.1 mile) for people only, our free half-mile Kids Fun Run, then a leisurely 1-mile Dog Jog. The event is rain or shine, however our Block Party will have a rain date of Sunday, March 22. All net proceeds aid in our efforts to rescue and rehabilitate homeless animals and to deliver crucial programs to pets and the people who love them. 

Your Dog Jog, 5K or Run Anywhere registration includes:

• An event T-shirt (for the first 1,000 registrants)
• A bag full of exciting giveaways from our generous sponsors (for the first 1,000 registrants)
• A numbered race bib (for the 5K)
• GPS tracking, progress alerts and official race timing through the RaceJoy app as you hit milestones along your route (if you choose our Run Anywhere option)

Outdoor Marketplace and Other Fun Activities, sponsored by Adopt a Pet Shelter Plus

Enjoy cool items for sale and sponsors and vendors offering giveaways.

• Apex Systems
• Center For Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine
• Entec Systems
• Fleet Feet
• Gather Workspaces
• Genworth
• Ginger's Barkey
• Girl Scout Troop 594
• Goldfish Swim School - Richmond West End
• H2O PRO Plumbing
• Holiday Barn Pet Resorts
• Intercept Health Treatment Foster Care
• Lawn games provided by the Richmond SPCA
• Loan Mutt Hydrating Mocktails
• Lora Robins Gift Shop at the Richmond SPCA
• Moore Subaru
• Niche Pilates Studio
• Partner Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center
• Patient Frist
• Richmond Coffee Company
• Richmond Flying Squirrels
• The Dog Stop
• The GameDay Dog
• Tito's Handmade Vodka
• VCU Health Pauley Heart Center
• Vector Security
• Velvet Paws

Kids’ Fun Zone, sponsored by Genworth

• Crafts and activities with the Richmond SPCA Humane Education department
• Giant Inflatables and games
• Face painting
• Kids' Fun Run for kids ages 4 to 10
• Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party Raffle
• Kid’s learning area

Pets’ Fun Zone, sponsored by Apex Systems

• Agility “Try It” Expo with Richmond SPCA trainers

Entertainment, sponsored by The Bakery Recording Studios

• Noon - 2:30 p.m. Turner's Body Shop Band
• 2:30 - 5 p.m. That Dog Bite (don't worry, our behavior team approved the set list!)

Food and Beverage Trucks

• Espresso-a-Go-Go
• Gelati Celesti
• River City Wood Fire Pizza
• Woodhead's Grill

Beyond the races, explore a variety of interactive classes for all ages and pets! From our foster care seminar to fitness activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the fun and see what classes are happening at the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party.

Foster Care Seminar (Free) 
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.

Interested in fostering cats and kittens? This educational course will teach you how to care for cats and kittens in a foster home setting.

 

Pilates with Niche Pilates Studio ($25 per person)
9 - 9:50 a.m. and 1:30 - 2:20 p.m.

This move mat class combines the core principles of Pilates and the unique integration of fascial lines. You can expect a fluid class with traditional Pilates and function movement that seamlessly connects, ensuring a harmonious flow that challenges and invigorates every muscle group. Designed for individuals of all experience levels, our class offers tailored options, making it accessible for beginners and challenging for seasoned practitioners. Pets are not allowed in this class and participants must bring their own mat.

 

Paint your Pet ($30 per person)
Noon - 1 p.m.

Unleash your inner artist and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece of your furry friend! In this interactive class, you’ll be guided step-by-step to capture your pet’s personality on a canvas tote bag. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll leave with keepsake to cherish forever.
Pets are not allowed in this class and all supplies are included in the workshop.

 

Spin Basics Training Workshop (Free) 
12:15 - 12:35 p.m.

You and your dog are invited to join us for a fun-size trick training class. This brief, informative session will give you the foundation for teaching your dog the beginning steps of “Where’s your tail?” (spin) and you will leave with a step-by-step plan to bring the trick to a polished finish. Pre-registration per pet is encouraged, as space is limited.

 

Recall with Confidence (Free) 
12:45 - 1:15 p.m.

Would you like your dog to come running when you call? This short training class will arm you with fun exercises you can play with your dog to achieve just that. Learn how to get their attention, encourage them to hurry back to you, and finish with a fun flourish. Go home with instructions so you can practice at home. Pre-registration per pet is encouraged, as space is limited.

 

Richmond SPCA
2519 Hermitage Road
Richmond, VA 23220

Saturday, March 21
5K at 10 a.m.
Kids' Fun Run at 11 a.m.
Dog Jog at 11:30 a.m.

Our 1-mile Dog Jog, 5K (timed by Richmond Road Runners Club) and Kids' Fun Run courses will start and finish at our Hermitage Road campus. 

Run Anywhere Dog Jog and 5K Courses and Race Timing

Participating in the Run Anywhere Dog Jog or 5K is easy and interactive thanks to the free GPS-tracking RaceJoy app! Download the app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, today! 

We will email you an assigned bib number, which you’ll enter into RaceJoy when you log in.

You must track your participation using the RaceJoy app in order to be eligible for 5K finisher prizes.

We strongly recommend that you download RaceJoy and log in with your assigned bib number before you set out to begin your Dog Jog or 5K participation.

Using the RaceJoy app for your virtual 5K and/or Dog Jog:

• Makes you eligible for 5K finisher prizes
• Provides you with an official time for your 5K and/or Dog Jog
• Adds your results to our leaderboard in real time
• Gives you progress and milestone alerts

Your family and friends can also download the app in order to track you live, receive progress alerts and send you words of encouragement through the “Send a Cheer” feature! Check out the RaceJoy User Tutorial to learn more. 

Celebrate a beloved person or pet, or create a fun cheer sign at the Dog Jog, 5K, and Block Party! Your dedication and cheer sign will be displayed at the event and shared on our social media channels, helping us raise funds to support pets in our care and the lifesaving programs we provide to the community. Following the race, take your sign home as a keepsake!

Social Media Features: 
Signs will be revealed on our Instagram Stories (@RichmondSPCA) on Sunday, March 15 and shared as photos on our Facebook page during event week. Be sure to follow us to see your signs as well as others! 

 

 

For general information about the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party, including our event and entertainment schedule, location and registration fees, please visit our Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party website.

What is the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party?
The Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party is a fun-filled day for the whole family! All proceeds benefit the Richmond SPCA's lifesaving programs. Activities include a timed 5K, a Kids' Fun Run, a leisurely 1-mile Dog Jog, an outdoor Marketplace, which includes activities for both pets and kids, and a Block Party featuring live music, entertainment and adult beverages.

When and where is the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party?
All in-person events will be held at our Robins-Starr Humane Center, 2519 Hermitage Road, on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The 5K starts at 10 a.m., the Kids' Fun Run starts at 11 a.m., and the Dog Jog begins at 11:30 a.m. The Block Party is from 12 to 5 p.m. The outdoor Marketplace opens at 9:30 a.m. For the full schedule and event details, visit our website.

What will the money raised support?
All net proceeds support our lifesaving programs. Each year the Richmond SPCA saves the lives of about 4,000 homeless pets. We also assist thousands of pets and people through crucial programs like our free pet pantry, Behavior Helpline, full-service, low cost veterinary hospital, low-cost and free spay and neuter clinic, crisis boarding and more.

What if it rains?
Don’t even say it! This event is rain or shine. Due to pre-arranged road closures and required police staffing, there is no alternative date for the Dog Jog or 5K.

As this is a vital fundraiser, refunds are not provided. Race insurance can be purchased for those who are interested. 
 
If severe weather occurs, the Block Party will be moved to Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 12 to 5 p.m.

Will the Richmond SPCA’s retail shop and adoption center be open?
Yes. Our retail shop and adoption center will open at 11 a.m. on the day of the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party.

Will food and drinks be available for purchase?
Yes, we will have food and beverage trucks.

When can I pick up my bag, bib number and T-shirt?
Pre-registered participants can pick up race packets, T-shirts, and bib numbers (5K only) during drive-thru packet pickup in the front parking lot at the Richmond SPCA (2519 Hermitage Road) on Tuesday, March 17 (noon–6 p.m.) or Wednesday, March 18 (9 a.m.–1 p.m.). A final pickup opportunity will be Friday, March 20, from noon to 7 p.m. at Smoky’s Training Center at the Richmond SPCA. (Accessed from the second parking lot along Rhoadmiller Street). We encourage early pickup to avoid event-day lines. You can pick up packets for others by signing for them on the registration list.

Team captains picking up for the entire team should email jjones@richmondspca.org in advance. Don't forget to let your team members know you are doing this!

Where should I park?
Free parking is available at The Flying Squirrels Green and Pink lots, just two blocks from the Richmond SPCA. To reach our facility, exit the Squirrels lot on Hermitage Road and turn right. Handicapped parking is available at the Richmond SPCA. Please contact Janae Jones at jjones@richmondspca.org to reserve a spot (space is limited).

Questions about the Dog Jog

When should I arrive to participate in the Dog Jog?
Registered Dog Jog participants should arrive by 11 a.m. If picking up your T-shirt and packet, arrive by 10:30 a.m. Allow 5-10 extra minutes to walk to our facility from the Green and Pink parking lots (corner of Hermitage and Robin Hood Roads).

What are the safety rules or requirements for participation in the Dog Jog?
Safety rules for the day, including the 1-mile Dog Jog:

• One dog per person; multiple people may walk one registered dog.
• Keep dogs on a short leash with ID tags and collar; no flexi/retractable leads are permitted.
• Pets must be at least 6 months old, current on vaccinations (proof not required), and not in heat.
• Maintain a leisurely pace and be kind to your dog.

My dog (or I) cannot run a full mile. Can we still participate?
Yes! Most participants walk the 1-mile loop instead of running it. View our Dog Jog course map.

Are strollers allowed in the Dog Jog?
Yes! Stollers/baby joggers are allowed in the Dog Jog but not in the 5K. 

Can I participate in the Dog Jog without a dog or join someone else whose dog is registered? 
Yes! Dog Jog registration is per dog, not per person. If you'd like to fundraise and be counted as a participant, you can register for the Cat Nap option, which has no fee (and does not include a T-shirt or goodie bag).

May I walk or jog in the Dog Jog with a pet currently in the care of the Richmond SPCA?
Thank you for wanting to include pets awaiting adoption in the fun! This registration option is only open to Running Buddies™ volunteers who have been active within the past six months. Qualified individuals will receive a special code for registration. Interested in becoming a Running Buddy? Click here for more information or contact our volunteer department at 804-521-1329. 

Questions about the 5K

When should I arrive?
Registered 5K runners should arrive by 9:30 a.m. If picking up a shirt, bib, and packet, arrive by 9:15 a.m. Allow an extra 5 to ten minutes to walk from the Flying Squirrels parking area to the Richmond SPCA.

Can my dog run the 5K?
Dogs aren’t permitted in the 5K. If you’re participating in the 5K and Dog Jog, please have a buddy there to watch your dog while you run the 5K.

What is the course like?
The 5K is flat, chip-timed and measured according to USAT&F Standards. View our 5K course map.

May I walk the 5K?
Yes, walking is allowed.

Are strollers allowed in the 5K?
No, however strollers are allowed in the Dog Jog.

Can I use a wheelchair in the 5K?
Racing wheelchairs are allowed; cycles are not.

When and where are times posted?
Times are posted at Smoky’s Training Center within 90 minutes of the race’s finish. Results will also be linked on our Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party website after the event.

Are awards and medals given?
Yes. Awards are given to our top three finishers in each age group and overall (male/female/non-binary). All 5K participants will receive medals at the finish line. Learn more about the awards that will be given out this year!

Will water and snacks be available?
Yes, bottled water and fruit will be provided at the finish.

Questions about the Kids' Fun Run

Who can participate?
Children ages 4–10.

Where does it start and end?
The run starts and ends in front of the Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital at the Richmond SPCA. The course is half a mile.

When should we arrive?
Arrive by 10:15 a.m. and gather by 10:50 a.m. on Rhoadmiller Street in front of our Susan M. Markel Veterinary Hospital. 

Can I run with my child?
Yes, one parent or guardian can run with their child without registering.

Is there a cost?
No, it’s free.

Will there be prizes?
Yes, each child will receive a special participation prize.

Questions about the Block Party

What will the day be like?
The Block Party will kick off immediately after the Dog Jog (around noon) with bands, food and beverage trucks and an outdoor Marketplace. There will be activities for pets and kids. The adoption center will also be open.

What does it cost to attend?
The Block Party is FREE to attend. Donations are welcome at the entrance gate.

Questions about the Run Anywhere 5K or Dog Jog

How do I participate?
If you can’t join us in person, you can participate from anywhere on March 20–22 using the RaceJoy app.

Are awards given for Run Anywhere participants?
Yes, but you must track your run using the RaceJoy app to qualify. Awards are given to our top three finishers in each age group and overall (male/female/non-binary). Learn more about the awards that will be given out this year.

How do I use the RaceJoy app?
Visit our race timing page for details.

Registration/Website Questions

How do I register?
Register online or email jjones@richmondspca.org or call 804-521-1309 to register offline. Online registration closes at 5 p.m. March 20. You may register in person the day of the event between 8:15 and 9:15 a.m. for the 5K or between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. for the Dog Jog. We encourage you to pre-register for our Kids' Fun Run so we have an accurate idea of how many kids will be joining us.

Do I need a ticket to attend just the Block Party?
No, just show up! Donations are welcome at the entrance.

Questions about Fundraising and Donations

What’s the fundraising goal?
We hope to raise $224,000 to support our mission to provide education and resources to achieve and sustain a no-kill community. Every dollar you help us raise is lifesaving! 

How can I help?
Your registration fees, raffle ticket purchases and donations all support this lifesaving event. You can also help us fundraise by encouraging gifts in honor of your participation among your own networks.

Why isn’t my donation showing on my page?
Donors have the option for their name and donation amount to remain anonymous.

Can matching gifts count toward my total?
Yes, matching gifts can be applied. Please check with your employer to find out if a match can be made for the gift, and to get the necessary paperwork. Please be sure to make a note on the paperwork that the match is to be applied to the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party. Contact jjones@richmondspca.org for assistance.

A donor accidentally made a donation to the event main donation page, when it was meant to be added to my fundraising total. How can I fix this?
Please email jjones@richmondspca.org or call 804-521-1309 to reassign the gift to the correct person or team.

Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, donations are tax-deductible, however registration fees, raffle purchases and T-shirt purchases are not.

How do I submit offline donations?
Mail checks or drop off cash donations at the Richmond SPCA at 2519 Hermitage Road, Richmond, VA 23220. It’s a great idea to use our offline donation collection form to help you keep track.

Can I donate to a team?
Yes, donations to individuals or teams count toward their fundraising total.

How are top fundraisers recognized?
Prizes are awarded to the top three adult, youth and team fundraisers. Prizes will be awarded for all participants who raise more than $250.

Team-Related Questions

How do I form a team?
Create a team online at richmondspca.org/dogjog and invite friends, family, neighbors or co-workers to join you!

Do donations to personal pages count toward the team total?
Yes, donations to individual pages are counted toward the team total.

How do I join a team?
Click “Join an existing team” during the registration process. If you have registered as an individual but would like to join an existing team, please email jjones@richmondspca.org or call 804-521-1309 to add you to an existing team.

Do I have to join a team?
No, you can participate as an individual.

How many members can a team have?
Teams can have an unlimited number of members.

Is there a minimum fundraising amount per team?
There is no required amount, however, we welcome all team members to help fundraise.

Do all team members have to register for the same event?
No, members can participate in the Dog Jog, 5K or as Cat Nappers.

How are team fundraising goals set?
Team captains set the fundraising goals and can adjust them anytime.

If your question was not answered here, please email Janae Jones, assistant manager of events, at jjones@richmondspca.org or call her at 804-521-1309. Thanks!

Prizes will be awarded after the Dog Jog and 5K. You can pick up your prizes outside of Smoky’s Training Center when the 5K results are posted.

Your hard work fundraising or participating in the 5K can pay off by winning you a wonderful prize! We will award prizes in the following categories. Specific prize details coming soon.  

Adult Fundraisers

First place: A one-night stay at Hilton Virginia Beach
Second place: A Professional Super Chute™ Juice Extractor
Third place: A $100 gift card to Discover Richmond Tours

Youth Fundraisers (ages 15 and under)

First place: Six deluxe passes to Peak Experience 
Second place: A one-year family membership to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Third place: Four passes to Bogeys Sports Park 

Fundraising Teams

First place: A private reformer class for 16 people at Niche Pilates Studio 
Second place: Bowling party for 12 people at River City Roll 
Third place: A round of mini golf and beverages for six people at Hotel Greene 

Prizes for our Top 5K Finishers

Top overall male, female and non-binary 5K finishers: $50 gift card to Fleet Feet
Second place overall male, female and non-binary 5K finishers: $40 gift card to Fleet Feet
Third place overall male, female and non-binary 5K Finishers: $30 gift card to Fleet Feet

Age group awards for male, female and non-binary 5K finishers
First place: $25 gift card to Fleet Feet
Second place: $20 gift card to Fleet Feet
Third place: $15 gift card to Fleet Feet

 **Age groups for finisher placement for the in person 5K route are in 5-year increments. 

Prizes for our Run Anywhere 5K Finishers

To be eligible to win 5K finisher prizes, you must use the RaceJoy app to track and report your time. 

Male, female and non-binary first place finishers in age group: $25 gift card to Fleet Feet
Male, female and non-binary second place finishers in age group: $20 gift card to Fleet Feet
Male, female and non-binary third place finishers in age group: $15 gift card to Fleet Feet

 **Age groups for finisher placement on the Run Anywhere routes are in 10-year increments. 

The Richmond SPCA hosts the Dog Jog and 5K each year to raise crucial support for vulnerable pets. By raising funds in honor of your participation, you help save the lives of thousands of animals in our community and deliver vital programs to needy pets and the people who love them. Whether you're participating as an individual or forming a team, your participation in this year’s event will help us save thousands of pets in our community, and you can win amazing prizes! 

To help you recruit, engage, and motivate your team, below are some resources to support your success:

The Fundraising Toolkit

Create a Team

The Team Captain Toolkit

Sample Team Recruitment Letter

Offline Registration Form 

Sample Donation Request Letter 

Offline Donation Form

Incentives to Fundraise

Prizes are awarded to our top fundraising individuals (youth and adult) and teams! All prizes and incentives can be picked up outside Smoky’s Training Center when 5K Race results are posted on event day.

Fearless Feline: Raise $250 or more, and you’ll receive your choice of select items from our Lora Robins Gift Shop.

Dynamic Doggo: Raise $500 or more, and you’ll receive your choice of select items from our Lora Robins Gift Shop and the opportunity to name a pet in the care of the Richmond SPCA.

Winning Whiskers: Raise $750 or more, and you’ll receive your choice of select items from our Lora Robins Gift Shop, opportunity to name a pet in the care of the Richmond SPCA and a limited-edition tote bag.

Marvelous Mutt: Raise $1,000 or more, and you’ll receive your choice of select items from our Lora Robins Gift Shop, opportunity to name a pet in the care of the Richmond SPCA, a limited-edition tote bag and a custom tumbler or mug featuring your pet. 

Tips for Fundraising

Register. Sign up online today! You will automatically be set up with a personal fundraising web page.

Tell your story. Personalize your fundraising web page with a photo and be sure to tell your page visitors why the cause of helping homeless dogs, cats, kittens and puppies is important to you. Use this space to ask your friends, coworkers and family to make a donation in your (or your pet’s) honor.

Get the word out. Use the email and social media tools available after logging into your fundraising page to ask friends and family to support your participation in the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party. Consider sending updates to your current and potential supporters to keep them in the loop about your fundraising success. Send letters via snail mail to friends and family and provide them with a stamped envelope with your address on it – it’s so easy they’ll have to donate!

Double your donations. Does your company have a matching gift program? Ask your employer to match what you raise.

Donate your birthday. Ask that your friends contribute to your fundraising goal instead of purchasing a gift for your upcoming birthday, anniversary or other special occasion. You can easily do this by creating a Facebook Fundraiser.

Donate instead. Donate what you would have spent on an online purchase, a coffee or takeout from a restaurant. Contribute the money you saved to your fundraising goal – and enjoy the sweet satisfaction that you’re helping a pet in need!

Join or create a team. Teamwork, even at a distance, puts the FUN in fundraising! Put together a team of coworkers, friends or family and fundraise together for the Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party.

Already registered, but want to create a or join a team? No problem! Contact Janae Jones at 804-521-1309 for help.

Save time on race day by picking up your race packet in advance! Pre-Packet Pickup, sponsored by Michael & Son Services, is quick, convenient, and helps you avoid event-day lines.
Pick up your race items early and conveniently to avoid event-day lines!

Locations and Times: 

• Drive-Thru Pickup (Lot A, 2519 Hermitage Rd.):
  • Tuesday, March 17 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Wednesday, March 18 | Noon – 6 p.m.
    
    
• Walk-Up Pickup (Lots B or C, 1611 Rhoadmiller St.):
  • Friday, March 20 | Noon – 7 p.m.

Event Day Pickup: 

• Saturday, March 2 | 8:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
  (Smoky’s Training Center, 1611 Rhoadmiller St.)
• Limited extra T-shirts may be available for purchase.

Key Details: 

• Event swag is brought directly to your car on Drive-Thru Pickup dates.
• Team captains picking up for groups should email jjones@richmondspca.org in advance.
• Drop off cash or check donations during drive-thru pickup.
• Complete our alternative packet pickup request form if you can’t attend any scheduled dates.

Thank you for supporting the Richmond SPCA!

 

We are excited to let you know that the Richmond SPCA’s Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party, sponsored by Holiday Barn Pet Resorts will be occurring on Saturday, March 21 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. We are hopeful that this event will raise more than $224,000 for homeless animals in our community. Starting at 9:45 a.m., your street will be closed and inaccessible until ~11 a.m. During this time all parked cars will also need to be cleared from the street. The course will be monitored by City of Richmond police. Please see the map of our 5K to plan accordingly.

As one of our neighbors, we would love to invite you to be a part of the festivities. The Block Party starting at noon is free to attend and features activities for pets and children, dog agility, live music, food, adult beverages and more than 50 vendors in our Marketplace. If you’re interested in participating in our Dog Jog or 5K, please use coupon code NEIGHBORS26 to save $10 on your registration.

Thank you for your support and we hope to see you on March 21.

Your grateful friends at the Richmond SPCA

Dog Jog In-person: T-Shirt

Dog Jog Run Anywhere: T-Shirt

5K In-person: T-Shirt

Both Dog Jog and 5K In-person: T-Shirt

5K Anywhere: T-Shirt