Richmond SPCA Dog Jog and Block Party raises $213,000+ for homeless animals

RICHMOND, Va. -- The 24th annual Dog Jog, 5K, and Block Party raised more than $213,000 for the Richmond SPCA on Saturday.

The event, sponsored by Holiday Barn Pet Resorts, took place at the Robins-Starr Humane Center on Hermitage Road and drew massive crowds to support homeless pets.

"We've got 3,000 people. We're expecting about 1,000 participants, 500 dogs, lots of vendors. It's just a great day," Richmond SPCA's Chief Executive Officer Tamsen Kingry said.

The day kicked off with a chip-timed 3.1-mile 5K for people at 10 a.m., followed by a half-mile Kids' Fun Run for ages 4 to 10 at 11 a.m., and a leisurely 1-mile Dog Jog at 11:30 a.m.

The money raised benefits the organization's life-saving work.

"It helps us rescue, rehabilitate, adopt out homeless animals," Kingry said. "It helps us respond to pleas for help from other organizations across the state of Virginia and beyond."

The funds also help with the group's pet retention, veterinary services, humane education and training programs.

"You name it, and all of that is going to be supported by today's event and this generous community who's supporting it," Kingry said.

Organizers also hosted a Block Party featuring special activities for kids and pets, live music, beer, food trucks and an outdoor marketplace with vendors offering giveaways and merchandise.

Award-winning WTVR CBS 6 anchor and reporter Greg McQuade returned as the event's emcee.

Following the event, the fun continued at The Park RVA as the venue donated 15% of food and drink sales to the pets in the Richmond SPCA's care.

"We like to say that this is the event to kick off spring, and the weather today certainly would suggest that that is true," Kingry said.

Proceeds from the event benefit the thousands of homeless pets cared for by the Richmond SPCA each year.

"This is an opportunity for our community to come together and to show their love and support for the animals who share this world, and it's just such a celebration of people's love and adoration for their pets. It's a celebration of them, and we're excited to enjoy this time with our community," Kingry said.

Click here to learn more about the Richmond SPCA and their annual Dog Jog and 5K Run. WTVR CBS 6 is a proud sponsor of the event. 

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