School of Veterinary Medicine sponsors 26th annual Dog Jog

Making a difference in the lives of homeless animals is the aim of the 2-mile Dog Jog benefit race set for Sunday, Sept. 20.

Sponsored by the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine, the race gets under way at 10 a.m. as hundreds of animal lovers and their dogs run or walk the course.

Last year, some 800 participants raised about $27,000, and organizers hope to raise even more this year. Proceeds benefit area humane organizations, including Angel’s Wish (Dane County), Country Animal Haven (Dane County), Dane County Humane Society, Iowa County Humane Society, Humane Society of Jefferson County, Rock County Humane Society, Sauk County Humane Society, Washington County Humane Society, and Watertown Humane Society (Jefferson County).

Anyone who loves animals is encouraged to give, whether they can attend Dog Jog or not. People can sponsor a neighbor, friend or family member, or even contribute in the name of their pet. Online donations can be made via this site. 

“Dogs and cats alike benefit,” says Linda Sullivan, a veterinarian at the School of Veterinary Medicine who oversees the Dog Jog.

Sponsored by the UW–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine’s Companion Animal Club, this colorful event draws pledges from across Wisconsin.

Participants can win prizes for collecting the most pledges, best costume and best finish times. Major supporters include John Urban, Merial Ltd., Isthmus/The Daily Page.com, Doggie Doo, Culligan Total Water, Full Compass and Novartis.

The run-walk will once again begin in Lot 60, near the intersection of Walnut Street and University Bay Drive on the west end of the UW–Madison campus.

Registration forms will be available at area veterinary clinics, including the school’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, in late August. Forms can also be downloaded from either the event Web site or the school’s Web site. For more information, call 608-263-1010.