A Garden Party to Remember: $11,000 Raised for Animals! On July 20th, the Seattle Animal Foundation hosted its inaugural Garden Party – and what an unforgettable evening it was! Over 100 guests gathered under perfect summer skies to enjoy an intimate night of music, community, and compassion for animals.
The highlight of the evening? Cathy Jordan, Ireland’s Folk Singer of the Year, delivered a performance the audience won’t soon forget. Her soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling were the heartbeat of the night, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. Said Justin Taft, SAF board President and host of the evening, “Hosting the event in my back garden was a joy. Watching it come to life with the voices, laughter, and spirit of our supporters, that was unforgettable.”
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our guests and supporters, we raised over $11,889 to fund our programs that save and improve the lives of animals in Seattle. Every ticket purchased, every glass raised, and every note sung helped make this success possible.
We’re grateful to everyone who attended and shared this special night with us.
On April 2, 2025, the Seattle Animal Foundation hosted their inaugural Rescue Symposium – bringing together over 25 animal welfare organizations from across western Washington for a day to discuss sharing, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions.
The symposium was created to bring leaders together, spark innovation, and drive real solutions to the most pressing challenges in animal welfare. With expert-led sessions and collaborative working groups, the event delivered actionable ideas, forged new partnerships, and reaffirmed our shared commitment to building a more compassionate future for animals and the people who care for them.
Expanding Foster Opportunities
Vickie Ramirez from the University of Washington’s Center for One Health Research opened the day with a discussion on fostering—especially in crisis situations involving owned pets. The group identified common challenges, including the difficulty of placing large dogs and limited capacity for urgent intakes. Promising ideas emerged, including the concept of a centralized foster databases, expanded telemedicine for foster families, and exploring partnerships with boarding facilities for emergency care.
Increasing Access to Spay & Neuter
Shaunessy Jones of Pasado’s Safe Haven led a session focused on increasing access to high-quality, low-cost spay and neuter services. Organizations shared resources already making a difference—such as Fixers Collective’s high-volume clinics and Feral Cat Project’s services for both owned and community cats. Participants envisioned a future with state funding for public education, legislation to remove income-based restrictions for nonprofit veterinary services, and expanded training for high-volume spay/neuter surgeons.
Strengthening Collaboration for Greater Impact
Seattle Animal Foundation Vice President JJ Lee facilitated a session exploring how to maximize impact through coordinated action. Attendees discussed shared barriers—from lack of affordable veterinary care to housing restrictions and information gaps. Many emphasized the need for centralized resources, such as a statewide shelter/rescue directory, and the power of collective advocacy.
During a working lunch, participants formed small groups to design impactful $100,000 grant proposals and state legislature policy recommendations. Ideas included:
Fix-Fest: A five-day mobile vet event in Eastern Washington
Resource-sharing networks for high-volume spay/neuter staff
Legislative advocacy to lift income restrictions on nonprofit vet clinics
Compulsory breeder licensing paired with public education on the need for spay and neuter statewide
Creation of Animal Care Districts to ensure equitable service access
Public education around the origin of pets and the impact of buying behavior on animal welfare
Looking Ahead
‘It was an incredible day and inspiring to have all the groups together at the same time working towards a common goal. Everyone is there to be supportive and we’ve already seen examples of collaboration following the event.’ said Jim Cox, SAF Executive Director.
The symposium sparked new connections, bold ideas, and a shared vision for a more humane and equitable animal welfare system across Washington. Seattle Animal Foundation is committed to continuing this momentum by supporting working groups, sharing learning, and championing collaborative initiatives that drive measurable change.
Attending Organizations – Forgotten Dogs Rescue, Resilient Hearts, Seattle Area Feline Rescue, Feral Cat Project, Humane Society of Tacoma/Pierce County, Seattle Humane, Pasado’s Safe Haven, Joint Animal Services, ASPCA Northern Tier, Doney Coe Memorial Clinic, Homeward Pet Adoption Center, Pawsitive Alliance, Old Dog Haven, Emerald City Pet Rescue, NOAH, South County Cats, Washington Health Outreach, One Health (UW/WSU), Seattle Veterinary Outreach, Dog Gone Seattle, Saving Great Animals, Seattle Animal Shelter, Seattle Animal Watch, Fixers Collective, Ranier Animal Fund
On Tuesday October 15th, Serious Pie in Ballard hosted a Pizza & Pups night of delicious pizza and fun for Seattle Animal Foundation (SAF), Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS), and Furry 5K volunteers. It was a great opportunity for folks to come together to share stories about their experience volunteering and meet like-minded individuals. Each volunteer received a raffle ticket, and SAF gave away dog beds, gift cards, and original drawings.
This event was such a fun (and tasty) way to celebrate SAF’s expanded mission and share the excitement with many new and long-time volunteers. Huge thanks to Serious Pie for providing the perfect venue!
We’re excited to continue spreading the word about our ability to support additional organizations that are also committed to furthering the lifesaving mission of helping shelter animals find a forever home.
The 25th annual Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk was a heartwarming success! The event took place Sunday, June 9th, 2024 under beautiful sunny skies and cool summer morning temperatures, making it an ideal day for running, walking, and enjoying the company of countless adorable dogs. This year, over 1,300 enthusiastic participants registered, filling Seattle’s Seward Park with a sea of royal blue Furry 5K tee shirts, and dog tail wags and happy smiles all around.
Tracy Taylor-Turner once again excelled as the event’s MC. Seattle Animal Shelter Executive Director Esteban Rodriguez expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants at the start line. Participants, both human and canine, were eager and ready to run. We saw some incredible performances this year, with many speedy runners and their pups achieving impressive finishing times.
In the months leading up to the Furry 5K, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation volunteers, GFS Events, presenting sponsor Mud Bay, companies, individuals and teams all worked tirelessly to raise funds. In total, $133,653 was raised for the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation to support programs and so many pets in need through the Seattle Animal Shelter. What an amazing success!
The event is made possible each year by the support of our donors, volunteers, sponsors, and vendors. The Furry 5K has always been powered by volunteers dedicated to supporting the Seattle Animal Shelter’s veterinary needs. This year, over 120 volunteers contributed their time and effort to make this event a success. Whether you ran, walked, donated, led a team, shared a post on social media, or participated in any other way — thank you. Your support helps the Seattle Animal Shelter continue its amazing work.
Wizard of Oz – Owners: Danah, Nick and Sagan; Dog: Riley & Fawn
Best Owner/Handler Look-alike:
Puppuccino and Puppuccino Master – Owner: Yuki; Dog: Mochi
Most Creative:
Panda – Owner: Elizabeth; Dog: Blue
SPONSOR THANK YOU
Putting on an event like the Furry 5K requires a community effort, and our sponsors are a crucial part of that community. Their invaluable resources help us create a fun and impactful event that benefits animals in need. A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, Mud Bay, and to all our wonderful sponsors:
Mud Bay *presenting sponsor* Lotus Communication – HankFM & Northwest News Radio 97.7 ORIJEN Petfoods Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue Ruffwear BluePearl Pet Hospital Nintendo Animal Medical Center Seattle Just Food For Dogs Ahimsa Green Juju Petcurean Seattle Vet Assoc Open Farm Tilted Barn Metro Dog Seattle Portland Pet Food Co Red Barn Pet Products Alpha Martial Arts Animal Surgical & Orthopedic Center BarkWell Pet Boss Dog Brand Fuzzy Buddy’s Johnston Architects Natural Pet Food Group Pets Global Wellness Pet Company Lake Union Escrow Cascade Heights Veterinary Center TropiClean City Dog Club Bellevue Veterinary Emergency + Specialty Nucor
Love and Patience Win – Each year, at the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation’s (SASF) Furevermore Auction & Gala, we auction off our most prestigious prize, the Face of the Furry 5K. The award will be the poster pet for all of our Furry 5K material, and this animal represents all the shelter animals that the SASF Furry 5K helps every year. The Face of the Furry 5K gets an exclusive photo session with a professional photographer to capture their pet, and then a talented illustrator turns your pet into art! The Face of the Furry 5K illustration is used on that year’s banners, posters, and tee shirts worn by thousands of pet lovers who attend the Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk in Seward Park, WA.
This year it takes place on Sunday, June 9th and is the special 25th anniversary Furry 5K celebrating 25 years of helping Seattle’s pets. Everyone who registers gets a Furry 5K tee shirt featuring Fortis, the Face of the Furry 5K.
Meet Fortis, a dog who has fought hard and endured a lot to get here. Fortis was rescued from a serious case of neglect and abuse. His champion, who has been volunteering with the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) for two years, has had to learn to adapt to his traumatic past and mix of behavioral issues and medical struggles. “He’s like a lot of our dogs, where consistency, understanding who he is, and patience really helps.”
As an open admission shelter, SAS takes in any case. Whether an animal is seized, surrendered, or a stray, SAS is there to give that animal a chance. In some cases, like Fortis’, that means behavioral hurdles.
His guardian knew that adopting Fortis would come with a unique set of challenges, but was prepared to give him her all. “It’s not uncommon for some of our dogs to have a tough time once they’re adopted, for a while.” Fortis is not comfortable interacting with other people and dogs, and struggles with things like fear and separation anxiety. But he finds joy in playing with his favorite ball, barking at the TV, and hanging out with his person.
She cautions that it’s a challenge to take on a dog with these difficulties. “It’s not been easy, but I say, ‘We’re in this together, buddy. I’m not going to give up on you.’” She must set boundaries with their environment and people they meet to keep Fortis comfortable. “Love keeps me going, but if I wasn’t fortunate enough to have the resources and support system available to me, I don’t think I could’ve done this.”
Fortis’s person has learned that he will never be that dog that can walk up to someone and be pet, and that as his guardian, she has to be comfortable saying no. Taking on an animal means becoming their advocate in the world. The biggest eye-opener for her? “That this is going to be a different journey with him than it would be with another dog. And that journey takes a lot of attention to my environment, knowing in each situation how he’s going to react, and what I need to do to make that environment safe for him.”
“I love him with my whole heart, but it’s a lot of one-way relationship between the two of us,” she explains.
Managing expectations, understanding their needs, and accepting the unique journey is a big part of their story. What’s kept her going is a few crucial things. When she saw Fortis and what he went through, she knew she’d do anything to make his life better. “I thought, ‘I can do this for him.’” Having the ability and resources to give him what he needs, and knowing in her heart she was asked to do this, has helped keep her going through their ups and downs.
If it seems like a lot of work and commitment, it is. But thankfully, there are people like Fortis’s forever person willing to put her time, effort, and love into dogs like him. “I’ve been volunteering since I was very young and it’s always the dedication of the volunteers that is inspiring. It’s made me appreciate the volunteers where I work just that much more.”
It’s important to know what you’re taking on, but to also know that you’re changing a life.
To get your animal companion as next year’s Face of the Furry 5K, be sure to attend the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation’s Furevermore Gala later this year. Generous and passionate animal lovers bid to win the honor, all for such an amazing cause, supporting Seattle’s neediest pets.
On your mark, get set… go sign up for the 2024 Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk! Join us Sunday, June 9th at Seward Park, Seattle for a fun-filled event for dogs and humans hosted by the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF). Sign up for the Furry 5K and get ready to raise some funds for pets in need at the Seattle Animal Shelter.
Each registration includes a collectable 25th anniversary Furry 5K T-shirt, your race bib, and a digital sponsor goodie bag. Advance packet pickup location and time will be announced on SASF’s social media Facebook and Instagram so be sure to follow us. We’ll email the details to all registrants too. Sign up for the Furry 5K now so you’ll get that email!
On Sunday, June 9th, day-of registration and packet pick up starts at 10am. Take your photo in the photo booth, then head over to the start line. The Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk will begin with a staggered start: Runners line up and the gun will fire at 11:30am. Walkers start 10 minutes later at 11:40am.
After you cross the finish line, treat your pup to a dip in the kiddie pool — a fantastic photo op, be sure to tag #furry5kseattle and #furry5k if you share your photos on social. Next, wind your way through the Paws in the Park vendor booths full of fun pet products. Check out the list of sponsors below for some of the vendors that will be there for learning about products, and deals for shopping. Look for the corral at the far end next to the stage to watch talented athletic dogs race the agility course. Then turn to the stage for the Furry 5K awards and Pet Costume Contest. Awards will be given to the top 5K finishers, top individual fundraiser, top team fundraiser, and the best costumes – both human and dog costumes, of course.
100% of the Furry 5K Fun Run and Walk profits go to the Seattle Animal Shelter, including support for medical care for pets in need. The Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) does so much to improve and save pet lives in our community. In 2023 alone, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation supported SAS to…
Get 521 dogs, 662 cats, and 181 critters adopted
Provide 1,383 spay and neuter surgeries
Hold 952 animal behavior sessions for shelter animals
Reunite 573 lost animals with their owners
Serve 942 Owned Animal Assistance Program animals
Serve 706 animals via the pet food bank
You can help us help even more shelter pets in the coming year — our goal is for the 2024 Furry 5K to get to 1,800 runner and walker registrations before June 9th. Invite your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, cat sitters, or dog-walking buddies to sign up at www.Furry5K.com and share why you’re racing on social media, tagging #furry5kseattle and #furry5k to join the fun!
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Many thanks to our sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsor, Mud Bay, who helps make the Furry 5K event possible with their support.
There’s a dog I see multiple mornings a week running with its owner. While mom has a leash strapped around her waist, the retriever prances evenly alongside her, hair blowing in the wind, undistracted by squirrels, other dogs, or the faint scent of a dropped treat.
My dog, Sandy, is not like that.
Sandy, at 11 years old, enjoys a leisurely pace during her walks, pulling me backward if she misses a “message,” stopping at length on corners to think about which way to go, and sometimes just sniffing the air. She could do with a little training and encouragement to get a move on. And it could only benefit her brain (and her waistline) to change things up a bit.
So what better opportunity to kick off a wellness routine than prepping for the Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk (register here!) coming up June 9? Supporting one of the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation’s primary fundraisers while also getting healthier was a win-win.
To inspire humans to prep for 5K races, there is no shortage of “Couch to 5K” plans. So Sandy and I set out to get her from “Dog Bed to 5K.” But I wanted to be sure to do that in a way that was healthy and safe, and respected her inherent breed traits.
Fit with Fido volunteer Heidi Beck with one of her adoptable running companions from the Seattle Animal Shelter.
I started our journey by getting in touch with Heidi Beck, a retired Seattle real estate lawyer and the lead volunteer for Fit with Fido, the Seattle Animal Shelter program that pairs pups with running buddies to get them exercise and socialization via two-mile runs around SAS. Twenty-five years ago, Fit with Fido launched the Furry 5K to support the same values: Being outdoors and active is healthy for people and dogs.
“It gives the dogs a chance to explore their neighborhoods and really satisfy their urges to sniff and mark and see other dogs. It’s stimulating for their brains as well as their bodies,” Heidi said. “It’s also great for the humans. We get our own workouts, our time outdoors … and that’s how we get our dog fix.”
Each dog is evaluated by shelter staff before being placed in the Fit with Fido program.
“When we select dogs we work closely with the shelter staff and vets to make sure the dogs are physically able to run, and also behaviorally ready. For example, we don’t take out dogs younger than 1 year old, and we don’t take senior dogs. A couple of really athletic dogs have recently been taken off the list because they were too skinny,” Heidi said. And dogs with “smooshed” faces or potential for hip issues might not be good candidates.
So our vet was my next stop. Aside from slightly high cholesterol, Sandy’s bloodwork showed she was in great health, and overall physically good to go. Our doctor advised caution with ball-launch toys that could stress her body by doing too much too fast.
Heidi advised starting slow when introducing your dog to a more rigorous fitness regimen.
“They are exactly like us,” Heidi said. “Even a husky isn’t naturally going to be an amazing runner. They need to get in shape,” she said. “When we take a dog out for the first time we are winging it. Jog slowly – does he keep pace? Does he run way ahead of you? We’re completely allowing the dog to show us how fast they want to run and whether they even want to run.”
Then, we had to make sure we were geared up. Being out of the house longer and managing different environments meant preparation.
Click to view Runner’s World’s 6-week 5K training schedule. The principles for this plan also apply if you’re starting a training regimen for your dog — ramp up slowly and make sure to rest!
“When you take the dogs running, bring poop bags, a collapsible water dish, reflective vests and lights on the collar in the dark,” Heidi said, and bring treats to get your dog’s attention when needed. She also noted volunteers don’t take dogs out when it’s icy or run them when it’s hotter than 75 degrees.
Since Sandy is a borderline senior, my goal isn’t to get her to come in first place at the Furry 5K. I just want her to be able to go the distance comfortably, and even to have three-mile walks be something we can do regularly together.
Whether you have a similar intention or you want to really increase your pup’s athleticism, there are a few rules, according to Runner’s World and the American Kennel Club:
Increase distance and speed slowly. Add short spurts of jogging or faster walking to walks.
Interval training or cross training can be helpful, something like chasing a ball or walking up hills (thankfully there’s no shortage of those here).
Create a fun cue for your dog so they know when it’s time to pick up the pace.
Keep an eye out for injuries. Just like in people, overused muscles can get sore or joints can act up.
So far, Sandy and I have increased our daily walk from a little less than a mile to consistently working in two-mile walks, and even walked around Green Lake recently. I’ve noticed that her pace depends a lot on time of day, too, so I try to schedule long walks early in the morning or late in the afternoon when she seems her peppiest. Sometimes she’ll be moving so quickly that I have to trot to keep up with her, and I wonder if in fact I’ve sold her short and really should be supporting her shot at a blue ribbon.
Either way, the increased time together has benefits for both of us.
“I just find it really hard to run without a dog,” Heidi said. “I find it really boring. With a dog at the end of the leash, you’re being entertained, you’ve got a companion and you share the joy of running around in the outdoors.”
Thank you to presenting sponsor Mud Bay for their incredible support of the Furry 5K Fun Run and Walk! Together, we’re making a positive impact on the lives of Seattle’s animals.
Our first annual Love Unleashed: A Valentine’s Day Fur-raiser was a smashing success! Animal lovers from all over Seattle came together to support a great cause, the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation. Both the venue and our hearts were filled to the brim as every seat filled with our compassionate community.
Catch a glimpse of the fun in our video & photos below!
A huge thank you to everyone who attended and spent time with our adorable adoptable animals. Like Koa, a perfectly behaved Shar-Pei mix, who captured hearts with her gentle demeanor. Or Frog, an adorable 4-month-old puppy, melting hearts with his two front leg casts and happy wiggly kisses – Frog has since found his forever home! And let’s not forget the adorable bonded bunny pair, Popcorn and Breakfast, who charmed everyone with their fluffy cuteness. See all the Seattle Animal Shelter’s adoptable animals here.
We’re immensely grateful for the incredible support of Stoup Brewing – Capitol Hill, who generously donated $1 for each pint sold. Thanks also to our two very special vendors joined us to make this evening even more special, and donated their proceeds: Puddles Barkery and Power Yummies! Thanks to their generosity, many hundreds of dollars were raised for the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation, providing vital support for Seattle’s pets in need.
To all who attended, drank pints for pets, and supported our cause, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your presence and generosity made Love Unleashed a night to remember. If you couldn’t attend, you can still show your support here. Let’s continue spreading love and compassion for our furry friends in need!
