San Marcos Pet Fest 5K & Fun Run/Dog Jog

Pancho (Photo by Mark Fagan)

See that adorable fellow at right? That's Pancho. I found him abandoned on the streets (stricken with worms and fleas and desperately in need of food and water next to a heavily trafficked intersection), took him home, and now we are soul brothers. He was, of course, in need of fixing when I found him, and fortunately I had enough money to get it done. Some people aren't so fortunate. That's where PALS of Central Texas comes in. PALS provides pet spay/neuter services to those who need their help and is the beneficiary of this all-ages fun run (choose between one mile and a quarter-mile) along the lovely San Marcos River trails. Theirs is a cause worthy of our support in these not-so-no-kill times. Well-behaved and restrained dogs are welcome and are encouraged to take part, and who knows, they might even win a medal of their own in the dog jog. The pet fest portion of the affair will include live music, pets from shelters and rescues, weenie and chihuahua races, yummy food, a silent auction, a pet parade, dog washes, a dunk tank, pet contests, and even more fun for the kids in the form of face-painting, train rides, and a moon jump. It's free with your donation of some dry pet food. Sat., Sept. 25. The 5K starts at 8am; fun run/dog jog starts at 9am. San Marcos City Park (behind Lions Club Tube Rental), 170 Charles Austin Dr., San Marcos. www.preventalitter.com/petfest.html.