The dogs are barking! The cats are meowing! The critters are… crittering? We’re all so excited to announce the Furry 5K is back in-person in 2022!
Dog and humans are welcome to join the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) on Sunday, June 12th as we make a triumphant return to Seward Park to host the in-person Furry 5K Fun Run & Walk.
Sign up for the Furry 5K now to take advantage of early-bird pricing and reserve your race bib, goody bag, and 2022 Furry 5K t-shirt.
On Sunday, June 12th, the Furry 5K will begin at 11 AM with a staggered start for runners and walkers. After you cross the finish line, make your way through our booths to check out some fun pet products, explore the dog agility course, treat your pup to a dip in the kiddie pool, or hook them up with a treat from Puddles Barkery.
You’ll then hear awards given to the top three 5K finishers, top individual fundraiser, top team fundraiser, and the best costumes (both human and dog costumes, of course).
We hope to see over 1,000 people at the race, and 100% of proceeds will go toward the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS). So spread the word and get a group of friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, cat sitters, or dog-walking buddies to race with you.
SAS has done so much to support pets over the years. In 2021 alone, the shelter helped:
Get 226 dogs, 363 cats, and 122 critters adopted.
Provide 898 spay and neuter surgeries.
Investigate 741 animal cruelty cases.
Reunite 454 lost animals with their owners.
Rescue 351 wild animals.
Perform 7,000 vet exams.
Serve 366 animals via the pet food bank.
We are so grateful for everyone who has supported the shelter after all these years (even when the Furry 5K was virtual in both 2020 and 2021). Let’s give back to SAS once more and raise $100,000 at the 2022 Furry 5K!
Share why you’re excited to race by tagging SASF on Instagram and Facebook and using #furry5kseattle and #furry5k to connect with our pet-loving community.
Many thanks to our sponsors, especially our Presenting Sponsor, Mud Bay, who help make this event possible with their amazing support for the Seattle Animal Shelter. A huge thank you to:
Join other animal lovers in the Seattle area to raise money for the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation, as we return in-person at Seward Park on June 12, 2022 at 11 a.m. Join us to run or walk in-person or virtually in support of the Help the Animals Fund at the Seattle Animal Shelter, which supports medical care for pets in need.
Roadblocks often breed the most creative ideas, and that was definitely true when the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) found itself in a tricky place this fall. With COVID-19 cases on the rise in Western Washington, the decision was made to forgo the annual Furevermore auction in 2021 to help protect the safety and health of the community. However, that didn’t mean that SASF board members and donors couldn’t help the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS)!
Volunteers gather outside the Seattle Animal Shelter at the start of the day.
On October 16, 2021, a group of about 25 donors, SASF board members, and other SASF volunteers came together to get their hands dirty and provide support for the shelter itself through a program called Pawsitive Projects. Not only did this provide an opportunity to accomplish much needed tasks — the dog corral was weeded, the “critter closet” cleaned out and organized, the laundry room scrubbed, toys assembled, and much more — they also were able to see for themselves the critical work they support.
SASF Marketing Chair and cat foster parent Katy Thweatt was there on the day to support the staff at the Seattle Animal Shelter.
“The Seattle Animal Shelter has been facing a volunteer shortage over the past few months. Events like Pawsitive Projects give the shelter some much-needed help when it comes to tackling hard-to-do, time-intensive tasks their regular volunteers don’t have the chance to focus on,” says SASF Marketing Chair Katy Thweatt, who is also an avid cat foster parent for the shelter.
Many SASF volunteers and board members joined the organization in the last two years, which created an interesting situation — there were board members who had never stepped foot within the shelter’s walls due to shelter COVID protocols. Fortunately, this day of volunteer help allowed all who joined to get an inside look into how the shelter operates and where their work and funding goes.
Throughout the day, there were also plenty of fun surprises alongside the hard work. After a few hours of organization and cleaning, volunteers helped stuff Kong toys with treats for the dogs being cared for in the shelter. This was followed by the joy of giving each pet their own yummy, treat-filled toys, which was a win/win for all. Outside in the corral, some volunteers made time to play with pets and get some cuddles in.
Volunteer Heidi Beck trims the weeds growing outside the dog corral.
So, what’s next for Pawsitive Projects? The success of October’s event opens the door for similar opportunities in the future. Katy, for her part, is looking forward to “seeing another group of pets we’re helping and catching up with all of the great people who also care about these animals.”
One other benefit of the event? Volunteers, donors and board members were able to meet each other in person, talk to the staff at SAS, and see for themselves what donations mean to the shelter. Donations are hugely important to keep programs running and to help bring technology and resources to areas that need it most— to learn more, take a look at these donation options.
This October, the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) will see some major improvements benefiting animals in need. These improvements would not be possible without the generous contributions to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF) from donors like you – THANK YOU!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see how Pawsitive Projects will transform the Seattle Animal Shelter on October 16th.
Giving back looks a little different during a pandemic. While we were sad to cancel the 2021 Furevermore Auction & Gala, we want to keep our supporters, like you, safe.
Still, nothing will stop SASF from rolling up our sleeves to support our mission of serving Seattle animals in need. Rather than host a gala this year, we decided to trade in our coattails for overalls.
Dubbed “Pawsitive Projects,” SASF has created a one-day event that will allow our board members and SASF supporters to complete several improvement projects throughout the shelter. This will be a full day of giving back by working on difficult, time-consuming tasks that will serve SAS and all animals, future adopters, staff and the Seattle community for years to come.
On October 16th, about 25 volunteers will arrive at the shelter to do all the dirty, time-intensive jobs that aren’t included in day-to-day shelter operations. These are projects like deep cleaning the food prep and laundry areas, buffing hallway floors, window washing and repainting dog and cat kennels, and weeding the walkway around the shelter and the dog corral.
… And the cherry on top? Support from donors like you helped SASF purchase over 100 items from the shelter’s wish list that will help feed, train and comfort pets at the shelter waiting for their forever families. These items include bird cages, aquariums, cat beds, critter pens and dog toy bins. SASF volunteers will deliver these gifts to the shelter on the 16th and will help assemble items so they can immediately be enjoyed by pets.
All volunteers have received their COVID-19 vaccines and masks will be worn inside the shelter at all times. We’re looking forward to reconnecting with our pet-loving supporters in a safe setting.
If you’re interested in supporting SAS, SASF and events like Pawsitive Projects, please consider:
Shop with Amazon Smile and direct your donations to the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. When the Pawsitive Projects day comes, help us spread the word about the great work SAS and SASF do to help pets.
On behalf of all the homeless dogs, cats and critters at the Seattle Animal Shelter, thanks for your support!
Hello friends and supporters of the Seattle Animal Shelter and SASF, we hope that this finds you in good health, and good spirits.
We wanted to share the news that the 2021 Furevermore Auction & Gala has been postponed until 2022.
The health and safety of our donors and volunteers is our greatest priority, and we simply would not be able to provide the event we know you look forward to in the current climate. That said, SASF is creating new ways to give back in big ways this year!
Please look for upcoming communications (you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram) for ways you can get involved and continue to support Seattle animals in need in 2021.
As always, we are grateful for all of our amazing donors, volunteers, and foster families. We look forward to seeing you all soon!
Tails wags are aplenty this June as the annual Furry 5K wraps up with great success. From walkers and runners, to team captains and adopters, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate now that we’ve come to the finish line. In 2021 the Furry 5K raised $71,686! That money goes directly to supporting pets in need with programs like behavioral training and resources to help rehabilitate injured animals.
Furry 5K participants enjoy their run in support of the Seattle Animal Shelter’s efforts. TOP: With their pups in tow, this family has everything they need to make this run their best one yet.
Through both rain and sunshine, supporters of the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) showed up big this year. For the second straight year the Furry 5K went virtual in 2021, meaning people could join from their own neighborhoods—or even their treadmills. More than 535 people joined this virtual run and walk. Every step is appreciated and helps the shelter accomplish its goals.
In addition, this year featured a new way to get involved in the festivities. Supporters had the opportunity to sponsor a dog to walk a 5K alongside one of the amazing SAS volunteers, and it was clear that the only thing better than taking yourself for a walk is sponsoring a shelter pup
With all that walking it’s important that pets fuel up, which is why we’re grateful to official Furry 5K sponsor Mud Bay. Mud Bay donated a pound of food for every mile raced and every dog sponsored, which tallied to more than 1,650 pounds of food donated.
Finally, the most important part of the fun run and walk is the chance to change even a single pet’s life. Throughout the week of the 5K many dogs, cats and critters were given the opportunity to find their forever family. Every mile jogged and every pet sponsored represents a huge accomplishment and a life-changing possibility for these animals. Thank you to the volunteers who made this year’s event come to life, to the sponsors of the 2021 Furry 5K, and to all the participants who contributed to this wonderful event.
The annual Furry 5K, a fun run (or walk!) benefitting the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation, has gone virtual for the second year in a row due to ongoing concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re interested in joining in the 2021 Furry 5K but aren’t sure how to participate, here’s some information to help you along.
What is a virtual 5K?
The term virtual 5K may sound confusing, especially as we’re used to virtual gatherings taking place on a screen. In this case, “virtual” really just means “remote.” We won’t be gathered together for a single race event — and because this year’s Furry 5K is taking place June 13-20, you have a full week to join in. Complete your 3.1-mile walk or run wherever and whenever works for you. Maybe that’s in your neighborhood, on a scenic walk with your four-legged friend, or even on a treadmill in your garage.
Three 5K routes in the Seattle area
For many people, it’s more fun to get out of their own neighborhood to complete a 5K. Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful, fun trails to explore in the Greater Seattle area. Here are three dog-friendly trails that can be used to complete the virtual Furry 5K.
1. Greenlake Loop
A classic trail in the city, one loop around Greenlake is just under five kilometers, or 2.8 miles. Fortunately, Greenlake is known for its beauty and sites, so you can either keep going around the loop for another 0.3 miles to make the full 5K at 3.1 miles or walk to your favorite coffee or ice cream shop around the loop to get yourself a post-race treat.
2. Washington Park Arboretum
There’s not a much more peaceful walk than a stroll through the Washington Park Arboretum. Full of different flora species and plenty of intriguing sniffs for your furry friend, this is a great trail to wander through as you participate in the Furry 5K. While there may not be one consecutive route, you can use a pedometer, your smartphone, or a smart watch to keep track of your mileage.
3. Seward Park
Seward Park in South Seattle is our last recommendation. In fact, it was the site of previous Furry 5K fundraisers in recent years. Take in a gorgeous walk along the western bank of Lake Washington and spend some quality time with your pets on a nice June day in Seattle.
What the Furry 5K means to Seattle Animal Shelter pets
Regardless of where you run or walk this year, the Furry 5K is an active way to support the incredible work of the Seattle Animal Shelter. From the vital work of cruelty and abuse to the everyday success stories of adopted pets, the money that is raised during this event directly benefits the shelter and its ability to care for the homeless pets that need it most. There are plenty of scenic areas to walk and run in the Greater Seattle area — join us June 13-20!
The Seattle Animal Shelter takes in thousands of stray and owner-surrendered animals each year. Many of these animals are in need of a new start, lots of love and often significant veterinary assistance.
Volunteers started the Furry 5K in 1999 to raise funds for the Seattle Animal Shelter’s veterinary needs. Over the past 20 years, the Furry 5K has become an annual fundraiser by the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation that provides homeless pets access to much needed care.
Across Seattle on Aug. 16, you’ll see supporters with their Furry 5k T-shirt going for a run or walk on their favorite 3.1 mile loop to provide happily-ever-afters for pets in need. In honor of their 3.1-mile trek, we’re highlighting the 3.1 major ways that your support of the Furry 5k makes a difference for pets in the Seattle Animal Shelter.
1. Medical care
Through event funding, the Foundation has supported the renewed medical equipment and supplies as well as providing an in-house veterinary clinic. We’re always looking for more ways we could help the shelter keep pets happy and healthy. This year our support has already helped an egg bound snake, a kitten with a badly injured tail and a large, energetic dog with pelvic fractures.
2. Behavioral care
In 2020, SAS expanded the behavioral program to include a full-time animal behaviorist.
The work the behavior team does has saved the lives of hundreds of dogs to date. Dogs that would have been deemed “difficult to adopt” come to SAS with the chance to live full, happy lives. They do not have to worry about being put down due to behavioral issues.
Our behaviorist works with pets to identify behavioral or enrichment needs and create plans to ensure that we are meeting the mental as well as the physical needs of pets in our care. The primary goal is to help pets have successful transitions into a permanent new home.
3. Special services
In addition to the main veterinary and behavioral needs, SAS looks out for pets in other ways.
From providing an onsite dog walking area to remodeling rooms at the shelter to give critters and cats the space they need, SAS is always looking for new ways to help the pets in their care heal and find their forever families.
Sometimes we come across animals who have terminal medical conditions but we are able to keep them comfortable and pain free. These animals may not but suitable for adoption but SAS supports a fospice (foster and hospice) care program to help pets live out their last days with dignity and relaxation. These animals go to homes of experienced foster parents where all of their medication is provided for by the Shelter to ensure that they can enjoy their remaining time in comfort.
3.1 Looking to support communities
The cherry on top of SAS’s work is the assistance they provide to the pet-loving community.
We provide licensing assistance programs for those with lower incomes and our officers are often providing pet supplies to pet owners with need in Seattle. This year they’ve joined a collaboration with other animal organizations in the area to help provide pet food to those pet owners who could really use the extra assistance right now through the pet food bank program.
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The Seattle Animal Shelter has given so much to the people and pets of this community. Now it’s time for our community to give back. Want to help? Just register, create a fundraising team, or donate.
The 2020 Furry 5K is fast approaching on August 16, and our Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation Board and volunteers have been hard at work making sure this year’s first-ever virtual event is a success. Learn more about what this annual FUNdraiser means to them and how YOU can help raise funds for Seattle Animal Shelter animals.
How have you participated in Furry 5K in years past, and what does the event mean to you?
I’ve fostered over a dozen cats in the past 4 years. Fundraising events like the Furry 5K afford my foster cats to get the medical care they needed. Thanks to Furry 5K participants, I know pets in need of help will keep getting the care they need until they find their forever homes.
— Katy Thweatt, Marketing Co-Chair
Emily and her dog, Mila
Running in the Furry 5K has been a family tradition for 5 years! I am excited to participate in a whole new way this year, walking with my 10-year-old lab and newly adopted 10-year-old dachshund mix on the Burke-Gilman Trail. Go #Furry5K!
— Emily Rondestvedt, Auction Co-Chair
I was fairly new to Seattle when a friend invited me to the Furry 5K a few years ago. It was my first introduction to all of the really important work that the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) does in the area… Little did I know that SAS and the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation were about to be a huge part of my life over the following years! I loved the idea of being part of an animal-loving community, and started volunteering for the foundation shortly after. I’m now on my second year of the Board.
— Krystle Gomez, Governance Co-Chair
This is my first Furry 5K! With us moving virtual, it’s been an opportunity to think about ways we can get those who are not runners — and even not in Seattle — supporting this important fundraising initiative.
— Sarah Yacoub, Marketing Co-Chair
After learning about SAS and the foundation, I became a volunteer for the Furry 5K in June 2017. Fast forward to October… I saw a volunteer board member position was open for the foundation. I applied, interviewed and now I’m in my third year of my 3-year term as a Board member. It means a lot each year to see people from all walks of life coming out to support animals by walking, running or even riding (strollers, wheel chairs) to the finish line. Everyone having a good time while supporting a cause they believe in is just really awesome to witness.
—Tiffany Daily, Secretary & Governance Co-Chair
I’ve participated in the Furry 5K since 2017, after I first became involved with SAS through a capstone project in grad school. The event is a fun day where you get to be surrounded by hundreds of dogs and their owners who are supporting the shelter through their participation. It’s always wonderful to see the sheer number of people who sign up, because I know we’re all coming together to help save Seattle’s animals.
— Cassie Ballering, Development Committee
I have participated in seven Furry 5K runs: twice as a runner/walker, and five times as an SASF Board member — which means volunteering before, during and after the Furry 5K.
— Sue Boivin, Board President
This is my first year! I’m excited to participate.
— Sarah Coppock, Auction Co-Chair
I’ve volunteered for the last three years — every year since I moved to Seattle. I’ve never been involved in an event that brings such joy to participants, runners and walkers, as well as the incredible causes that the Furry 5K supports. When I first saw the runners, walkers, dogs and cats (!) all having such a great time, I was hooked!
— Richard Todd, Development Committee
Now that the Furry 5K is going virtual this year, how do you plan to participate? Will your pet(s) be joining you?
Richard’s cat, Ellum, participates in the Furry 5K by napping.
I’m going to be walking the 5K with a foster dog from Seattle Animal Shelter! My cat is getting to an advanced age and HATES her harness, so I might chase her in circles at home for 5K… or I might just give her treats. I’m also running a fundraising team at my work.
— Richard
I will take a long hike with my pups and make sure that I have my mask on and practice social distancing. We are thinking of a lake hike so that we can pack a lunch and the dogs can get to cool off. My cat might not be in the mood for a hike, but the dogs will be so happy!
— Sue
I’m finding a neighborhood I don’t regularly walk in and exploring some new sites! I’ve tried putting Mimi, my current foster cat, in a cat leash. It hasn’t gone well so far so she’ll most likely be cheering me on from home.
— Katy
I’m planning on running 5k or more with my dog Daphne (we’ve been training!) and raising money for SASF through my personal fundraising page. I told my friends and family I would running an extra 1k for every $20 donated above $100.
— Sarah C-P.
I will be social distance running with a friend and her dog in our neighborhood during the week of the event.
— Cassie
Steve, my rescue mix and I will walk, probably slowly for 5K; Steve is nine so he’s not much of a runner. I’ll be lucky to get him off the couch for the walk!
— Sarah Y.
Ginger (my adopted pup) and I will enjoy a leisurely 5K around Green Lake! She likes to stop and smell all the spots and we may stop for a puppuccino from Starbucks en route. Ginger may be tiny, but she loves her walks!
— Krystle
Krystle and her dog, Ginger.
Ginger (my adopted pup) and I will enjoy a leisurely 5K around Green Lake! She likes to stop and smell all the spots and we may stop for a puppuccino from Starbucks en route. Ginger may be tiny, but she loves her walks!
— Krystle
What tips do you have for reaching out to networks, friends and family for team fundraising?
Every dollar helps, so when I reach out to friends and family, I let them know that any amount is appreciated. I’ve found most people are happy to give for a great cause!
— Krystle
Share your support for the Furry 5K on social media — and like, comment on and share what SASF is posting on their pages. The more awareness we can bring to the event, the more money we can raise to help dogs, cats and critters.
— Sarah Y.
Provide them with a personal story of why you support SAS/SASF and why it would mean so much for them to contribute funds to your team.
— Cassie
Katy and her SAS foster cat, Barley
I share how the Seattle Animal Shelter has helped my pets personally. One of my foster cats, Barley, needed two radioactive iodine treatments for hyperthyroidism. He was able to get the care he needed without the shelter having to consider cost.
— Katy
Don’t be shy. Know that every dollar raised helps save homeless and abandoned animals in Seattle. There are so many that need our support right now. Let them know that you are part of a community of passionate folks that want to make a difference in the lives of Seattle homeless animals. Together we can give deserving animals a second chance at happiness, love and finding their forever home! Everyone is welcome, and we want everyone to be a part of this life changing work.
— Sue
I like to email family and friends individually, and personalize my outreach to each person based on my relationship with them.
— Sarah C-P.
Reach out! Ask! Show them the work of the Foundation and the shelter. It’s a great event — people will thank you for getting them involved.
— Richard
Why is supporting the Furry 5K so important for SASF?
The Furry 5K is one of our two big fundraisers each year. With all that’s gone on in 2020, we expect the shelter to support more pets and pet owners than ever in upcoming months. With money raised from this event, we ensure that cats, dogs and critters have a safe space to heal and await their forever families.
— Katy
Sarah and her dog, Daphne
Supporting Furry 5K is important because it’s a great opportunity to raise crucial funds for dogs, cats and critters in our community. It’s also an opportunity for more people to learn about SASF and the amazing work the organization does.
— Sarah C-P.
Furry 5K is really all about bringing the community together to help animals in need. This year, I think we can all use a little positivity and (socially distanced) togetherness… and exercise! That’s a win, win, win — all in support of animals who really need our help.
— Krystle
With so much uncertainty and challenges in today’s current environment, this is one way we can demonstrate what remains important to many of us. Non-profit organizations face completely new challenges in 2020, so supporting events like Furry 5K help ensure continuity of service to Seattle’s animals.
— Sarah Y.
This event is important for raising funds to save the lives of animals in Seattle, and also a great way to show your community support. The Furry 5k is an annual event and it not only allows us to share stories about ways that SASF has helped animals in the community, but showcases our sponsors and gives them the opportunity to promote their local businesses.
— Cassie
It raises vital funds for animals in our community who need help. It brings Seattle animal lovers together (virtually or otherwise). It’s an excuse to get outside in the summer and work off that ice cream!
— Richard
Furry 5K is such a beloved community event for such a noble cause. It is one of three major fundraising events that SASF puts on every year to ensure that the Seattle Animal Shelter has enough funds to continue to do their good work — which is to save as many lives as possible. This event ensures every animal that enters SAS is treated as an individual and has everything it needs for a chance at lasting happiness — including medical care, training, a soft place to land, protection from abusive and cruel situations, and of course love, understanding and patience.
— Sue
There’s still time to join other animal lovers in the Seattle area to raise money for the Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation. Register your team today for this year’s virtual Furry 5K on August 16.
Friends and supporters of the Seattle Animal Shelter and Seattle Animal Shelter Foundation,
We hope that you are in good health, and good spirits. 2020 has certainly not held back its challenges, but we remain grateful for the resiliency and support this city continues to show.
To start, we want to update you on our animals, all of which are safe and in foster homes with our incredible foster network. SAS adoptions remain open through a temporary appointment-based system.
We would also like to update you on our annual Gala, Furevermore. As many of you know, our annual auction is the paramount event for SASF. It provides an opportunity to show our gratitude for our local donor base and businesses, a chance to bid on exclusive items, and most importantly it represents the single largest opportunity to raise funds for Seattle animals in need.
In 2019, we raised just over $213,000, which supported many of the programs and resources needed to keep the Seattle Animal Shelter operating. Due to the current pandemic, we have made the difficult decision to move our auction to 100% virtual.
We know how much many of you look forward to this live event, but we have decided that the safety and health of our loyal donors and team members should remain our top priority. This year, the auction will be a week-long event, with bidding opening Monday November 9th, ending, Saturday November 14th.
How can you help support SASF Furevermore in 2020?
Donate Auction Items:
Do you have a business or know of one that could benefit from the spotlight this year? Let us brag about it! We are looking for vouchers for unique/curated experiences. These items are highly sought after and give SASF an opportunity to showcase businesses in a meaningful way!
Items that are pet or self-care focused are always spark interest!
Make sure you’re following SASF on Facebook and Instagram. We’d love your support in sharing a post and spreading the word about our organization!
We want to thank you for your understanding and patience with this change in events, and look forward to sharing more details on registration in the coming months.
Please feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions,
I have participated in seven Furry 5K runs: twice as a runner/walker, and five times as an SASF Board member — which means volunteering before, during and after the Furry 5K.
