Animal lovers of all ages are invited to lace up their shoes and bring along their leashed pets for the annual Hoof N Woof 5K set for April 20 in St. Paul.

The race begins at 9:30 a.m. outside the Veterinary Medical Center on Fitch Avenue. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate. Dogs are welcome but must stay on a leash, be up to date on their rabies vaccine, and should be comfortable around other dogs.

The Hoof N Woof 5K is organized by the University of Minnesota chapter of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association. The organization offers veterinary students opportunities to achieve their career aspirations, build a community with their peers, and make a difference that extends beyond the classroom.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Minnesota Association of Pets in Crisis (MNAPC), a nonprofit organization that specializes in providing housing and care to pets belonging to victims of domestic violence with the goal of ultimately reuniting pets with their families.

“This is the second year that the Hoof N Woof has worked with MNAPC, and it has been great to develop a relationship with their organization,” says Jena Hauch, SAVMA philanthropy chair and College of Veterinary Medicine DVM student. “With the scarcity of domestic violence shelters accommodating pets, many individuals are left grappling with the agonizing choice between their beloved companions and their own safety. MNAPC stands out as one of only a few organizations that are working to navigate these barriers.”

Following the race, awards will be presented and refreshments will be available for participants and animal companions.

Registration for the race is $25, and the first 100 people to register are guaranteed a T-shirt and goodie bag. Race packet pick-up will start on Saturday at 8:30 a.m., with same-day registration also available.

Click here to register online.

Parking is available at the Gortner Avenue Parking Garage, located at 1395 Gortner Ave Saint Paul, MN 55108.

The race is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, Zoetis, Purina, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Banfield.