11th Annual Fast & Furriest 5K/1M - April 19, 2026

🐶 Race Overview

The 11th Annual Fast & Furriest 5K race and 1M walk to benefit Operation Paws for Homes - an all-breed 501c3 dog rescue - is one of the rescue's largest annual fundraisers.

This year's race is focused on helping dogs diagnosed with heartworm disease, which can be deadly if not treated. These dogs are often the last to leave a shelter -- if they leave at all. The rural shelters we work with do not have the resources to treat these animals who are sick through no fault of their own. Without rescue or adoption from the shelter, the chances are slim they will survive.

Each year, Operation Paws for Homes incurs vast medical costs - in 2025, costs will exceed $150,000. Treating the heartworm positive dogs who are lucky enough to come to the rescue make up about $30,000 - approximately 20% of total medical costs. This event aims to replenish those funds so that we can treat even more dogs. We encourage families, runners, walkers, supporters and anyone interested in helping this organization to join in this fun event.

🏁 Date & Location

• Date: April 19, 2026
• Check in Date: April 17, 2026
• Location: Heritage Farm Park, 9236 Devilbiss Bridge Road, Walkersville, MD
• Race URL: Fast & Furriest 5K/1M

📅 Race Schedule

• Online Registration: Open until 6:30AM on race day
• 5K Race: 8:15AM
• 1M Walk: 9:00AM
• Check-in Times: Runners 7:15-8:00, Walkers 8:15-8:45

🐕 Bring Your Dog

• Dog Registration: Register as WITH DOG-LIVE 5K RUN
• Dog Leash Requirement: 4-6 foot leash only, no retractable leashes
• Eligibility for Awards: All runners with dogs are eligible for age level awards
• 5K Course Walking: Register as 1M LIVE UNTIMED WALK and notify check-in

👕 Race Shirts

• Reservation Only: Shirts are available by reservation only
• Last Shirt Registration: Register by March 21 for a shirt
• Children 0-10: Free registration, no shirts available
• On-Site Distribution: Only pre-ordered shirts will be available

🏅 Awards

Awards available for runners on-site include:

• Top Overall: Male and Female
• Top Runners with Dogs: 1st, 2nd & 3rd for both Male and Female
• Age Groups: Awards for categories such as 60 & Up, 50-59, etc.

🍔 Food & Vendors

• Food Trucks: TBD
• Vendors: TBD (More Info)

🌍 Participate Virtually

Tell all your friends and family - wherever they are located - they, too, can participate in this event and support the many dogs that need us every single day. Let's make it coast to coast this year! Anyone can participate using a VIRTUAL OPTION.