Please join us for the 31st Annual Run for the Animals 5K on Sunday, October 4th!

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 the Monroe County Humane Association. Each registration includes an official Run for the Animals t-shirt and sponsor swag.  

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

10:00 AM–12:00 PM & 5:00–7:00 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, Trainer-led Group Stretch
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. 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

This event is crucial to MCHA and our ability to provide the numerous programs and services that would not otherwise exist in our community. MCHA advocates for a more humane future for the pets in our community by providing accessible veterinary care through our Nonprofit Veterinary Clinic, Crisis Housing Program, Emergency Pet Food & Supply Pantry, Spay/Neuter Assistance Program, Street Outreach, and more. Many lives, human and animal alike, are touched by the work of MCHA. This is only possible thanks to the generous support of our community and sponsors! MCHA is a private 501c3 non-profit that receives no funding from national organizations or tax dollars.