Dog Days 5k and 2 Mile Walk at FestivalSouth

Join us on Saturday, June 10, 2023, for the Dog Days 5K & 2 Mile Walk at FestivalSouth! This is a dog-friendly event for the whole family that benefits the Hub City Service Dogs program, a nonprofit organization in Hattiesburg, MS, that trains service dogs for individuals with medical disabilities. The 5K and Two-Mile is an early morning run/walk - to beat the heat - with or without dogs. Both routes will both start (and finish) at Kamper Park (107 S 17th Avenue in Hattiesburg), at 7:30 a.m. This is a pup-friendly race, with water stations for both runners and canines along the route. All dogs are required to be on a fixed leash. The route will take participants through the Avenues of Hattiesburg, a quaint neighborhood with a shaded path. Community volunteers, as well as clients of Hub City Service Dogs, will be there to cheer you along the way! The race will end at Kamper Park, with a Finish Line Festival for both race participants and their pets. Please be sure that your pup is healthy to participate. Also, keep in mind that even though it may be early in the day, your pup could become easily overheated if he/she is not conditioned for this type of event. Our goal is for everyone (runners and pups) to have a great time! At the Dog Days event, there will be breakfast by Topher's, a Run-by Dog Pageant with local celebrity judges (Dogs to be identified during the run/walk by participants' bib numbers. More info below.), and custom finisher medals for all runners/walkers with and without dogs who complete their event. (OVERALL First Place Male/Female, Run/Walk, With and Without dogs will be also be awarded.) All participants will receive a limited edition event t-shirt (if registered by May 30th** at noon) and are invited to enjoy the Finish Line Festival after the run/walk where they will find vendors, refreshments, entertainment, door prizes, photo opportunities and much more FUN! The race starts at 7:30am but plan to be present and ready for the festivities at 7:00 am! The event will be timed by Diva Timing. Calling all POOCHES!!! Come prepared in your best costume, watch for the Judges' tent and bring your best trick if you have one! All Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations and on a fixed leash. No retractable leashes allowed. Prizes will be awarded in the following Run-by Dog Pageant categories: Coolest Dog Best Dressed Best Parent/Pooch Pair Tiny Tot Super Dog Diva Dog Most Handsome Hound Watch Facebook for more exciting news! All proceeds benefit Hub City Service Dogs.