17th Annual Run for the Paws
Event Date
Check back for the 2024 date!
Event Address
North Collier Regional Park
15000 Livingston Rd.
Naples, FL 34109
Thank you for supporting the 17th Annual Run for the Paws 5K. We had over 350 people register to participate in the race, both in-person and virtually.
In its 17th year, the Run for the Paws provides our community with a healthy and fun event which helps raise money towards the life-saving work Humane Society Naples provides to homeless animals in and beyond our community. Thanks to your support over $22,000 was raised for HSN!
Overall Male Winner: Carlos Miranda
Overall Female Winner: Lauren Osborne
1st Place Dog: Mila with Steve Iannaccone (HSN Alumni – 7th year as Top Dog!)
2nd Place Dog: Cooper with David Browne
3rd Place Dog: Apollo with Lauren Osborne
2023 Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
T-Shirts Provided By
John & Kathy Rizzo
Pack Leader Sponsor
In Memory of Timothy M. Wendt
Companion Sponsor
Event Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Race Information
Q: What does the virtual option mean?
A: The virtual option is for those who do not want to walk/run in a large crowd but still want to participate and support HSN. We are putting together some fun suggested walk/run routes featuring selfie stations, DIY race kit with race bib and other items.
Q: Will all event participants receive a t-shirt?
A: YES! Part of your registration fee includes our event t-shirt which all participants will still receive. Shirt sizes will only be guaranteed for runners who register before January 13, 2023. We will have outside packet pick-up at our Humane Society Naples main building (370 Airport Pulling Rd. N).
Q: I was unable to pick up my t-shirt and goodies. Will you mail it to me?
A: Because of the costs and logistics in mailing out shirts, we will not mail out any shirts, unless the participant registers from out of town. You may also pick up your shirt during our Packet Pickup. In addition, you may have someone else pick up your shirt on your behalf.
Registration & Fundraising
Q: How do I register myself or others for the race?
A: Registration link – Coming soon.
Q: Do I need to pay a registration fee for my dog?
A: No! Our canine guests are free, but we do limit no more than one (1) dog per registered participant. Dogs must be on a leash (retractable leashes prohibited) and up to date on all vaccinations and records. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in being asked to leave the event with no refund issued. For the safety of all human and non-human participants, those running with pets are asked to start the race at the back of the pack.
Q: I registered for the event but can no longer attend. Can I get a refund?
A: Because our registration fees help cover our event costs, we are unable to issue any refunds for any reason (including but not limited to: illness, cancellation of event due to weather, family emergency, etc.).
Q: What does my registration fee cover? If I am fundraising for this event does it count towards my goal?
A: Your registration fee covers our costs associated with putting on the event, such a t-shirt and event logistics. In order to encourage additional fundraising to help shelter pets, we DO count the registration fee towards your fundraising goal!
Pet Questions
Q: Can I bring more than one dog?
A: For the safety of all animals and humans, only one dog per human is allowed.
Q: What type of leash should I use?
A: Only non-retractable leashes are allowed at the Run for the Paws 5k.
Q: Are dog strollers allowed?
A: YES but dogs must still wear a non-retractable leash in case they jump out.
Q: May I bring a cat if they are in a carrier/stroller?
A: You may, however, we discourage owners from doing so. With many dogs in attendance, the environment is very stressful for most cats.
Q: Do runners with pets start at the same time as other runners?
A: Yes. However, for the safety of all human and non-human participants, those running with pets are asked to start the race at the back of the pack.
Fundraising Opportunities
Humane Society Naples’ lifesaving work is only possible because of the support and funds raised by animal-loving community members like you! By fundraising, you can help us save homeless pets, prevent pet overpopulation through free spay/neuter, provide under-resources communities with important resources and raise awareness.
Raise Funds. Save Lives. Win Prizes
$150
- HSN Branded KoolGator (Multi Function Headwear)
- Pet Goodies
$250
- HSN Branded Cooler Bag
- HSN Branded KoolGator (Multi Function Headwear)
- Membership into the Lori Stuber Society-Supporter Level
- Pet Goodies
$500
- HSN Branded Cooler Bag
- HSN Branded Hat
- HSN Branded KoolGator(Multi Function Headwear)
- Membership into the Lori Stuber Society-Sustainer Level
- Pet Goodies
$1000
- All of the above + HSN Branded Columbia Rain Jacket
- Membership into the Lori Stuber Society-Animal Advocate Level
To learn about your fundraising options, please contact runforthepaws@hsnaples.org.
Offline Donation Checks — Ensure your check donations find their way to your fundraising page by including the Offline Donation Form with your checks. Simply place your name on the top, and include the name of the donors and donation amounts, one per line. Send the form along with checks to our business office:
- Humane Society Naples
Attn: Run for the Paws 5k, Melissa Demkovich
370 Airport Pulling Rd. N
Naples, FL 34104
Sponsorship Opportunities
In addition to supporting a lifesaving cause, sponsors love our annual Run for the Paws 5k because it offers a unique and meaningful way to connect with fellow animal lovers. The PAWS 5K offers a valuable marketing opportunity for both pet-friendly businesses and any company which wants to network with pet-owners.
For more information or to set up a time to discuss further, please reach out to Melissa Demkovich, Event & Outreach Manager at runforthepaws@hsnaples.org.
Video courtesy of Adrian, a photographer at dogsofnaples.com.