DeKALB – Tails Humane Society is hosting their annual Mutt Strut 5K Run & Walk-A-Thon on Saturday beginning at 9 a.m.

The event benefits the more than 3,400 animals cared for at Tails Humane Society each year. The race begins and ends at Hopkins Park in DeKalb, with the mid-portion of the route running through the DeKalb Nature Trail.

Racers are encouraged to bring their furry friends, as the race is entirely dog friendly. Options for the race are a 5K course or a one mile track. Chip timing will be included for accurate results.

Early-bird registration closes at 8 a.m. on Friday, with in-person registration available on race day. If you are already registered, gear pickup will be available at Hopkins Park in the Shelter Building from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday.

Registration before race day is $34 for adults age 18 and over. Under 18 youth competitors are $15. Those who opt to bring their pets will have a $5 dog registration fee. All participants under 5 years old are free. Race day registration jumps to $40 for adults and $15 for youth.

Gear will be available, including T-shirts for people and dog bandanas for the pups. However, gear is only guaranteed for those who registered before Sept. 1. Otherwise, all items are on a first come, first served basis.

All proceeds benefit the homeless pets cared for at Tails Humane Society. Racers can register themselves and their pet so family and friends can cheer them on with donations of their own. The runner who raises the most money is able to feature their own dog as the logo for next year’s Mutt Strut event!