Run for the Animals 5K

Run for the Animals is a timed 5K run/walk at Karst Farm Park, with all of the proceeds benefiting the programs and services of Monroe County Humane Association . Each registration includes an official Run for the Animals t-shirt.  

NEW in 2026, we're introducing separate start times for runners and walkers! The course starts at Karst Farm Park and loops through the Monroe County Fairgrounds. The awards ceremony and sponsor booths are now located near the start/finish line, making it easier for participants and families to celebrate together—and for faster results posting! After the awards, stick around for the raffles and fan-favorite pet contests! You don't have to be registered in the 5K to participate in the raffle and pet contests!

We anticipate welcoming hundreds of runners, walkers, and furry friends to this event! Don’t miss this great opportunity to support animal welfare in our community!

Event Schedule:

Saturday, October 3

2:30-5 PM: Preregistered Packet Pick-up at Karst Farm Park Commons Bldg

Sunday, October 4

8:00 AM: Packet Pick-up & Onsite Registration Opens
9:15 AM: Registration Closes
9:30 AM: 5K Run Begins
9:35 AM: 5K Walk Begins
10:30 AM: 5K Run/Walk Awards Ceremony
11:00 AM: Pet Contests & Raffle Winners Announced

Important Notice for Canine Participants: As required by the state of Indiana, all dogs must be up to date on the rabies vaccination. Runners and walkers are only allowed one dog per registrant. In addition, only spayed/neutered dogs are permitted to participate. (Visit monroehumane.org for information on Spay/Neuter Assistance.) All dogs must remain on a leash at all times during the event. For safety reasons, retractable leashes are not permitted—only standard, non-retractable leashes are allowed. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and fun event for everyone!

5K Award Categories:

• Top 3 Overall Men's 5K
• Top 3 Overall Women's 5K
• Top 3 Youth (12 & under) Male 5K
• Top 3 Youth (12 & under) Female 5K
• Top Male & Top Female 13-17 years
• Top Male & Top Female 18-24 years
• Top Male & Top Female 25-29 years
• Top Male & Top Female 30-39 years
• Top Male & Top Female 40-49 years
• Top Male & Top Female 50-59 years
• Top Male & Top Female 60+ years
• Top 3 Canine 5K

Run for the Animals is an important fundraiser for MCHA and directly supports programs and services that would otherwise be limited or unavailable in our community.

MCHA works to create a more humane future for pets and the people who love them. Every program we provide is focused on keeping pets healthy, keeping them in loving homes, and keeping them out of shelters whenever possible. That includes our Nonprofit Veterinary Clinic, Crisis Housing Program, Emergency Pet Food & Supply Pantry, Spay/Neuter Assistance Program, Street Outreach, and other community-based services.

Each year, thousands of pets and their families are impacted by MCHA’s work. These programs are only possible because of the generosity of our community, donors, participants, and sponsors.