Natick 5K will have dogs run with humans. How the founder came up with the idea
NATICK — There aren't many 5K events that allow you to participate with your four-legged best friend. But JR's Paws for a Cause 5K is all about just that — a dog-themed activity that brings runners and humans together to help support canine-related charities.
The brainchild of Natick native Lauren Barbo, the 7th annual Paws for a Cause 5K will be held Sunday, April 28 at Natick High School. The event launched in 2017, and was scrapped in 2020 event due to COVID-19.
Barbo, a veterinary technician, was inspired to start the event while volunteering with Project Samana, a nonprofit that provides veterinary services to animals in the Dominican Republic.
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"When I returned from my service trip, I really wanted to make a difference beyond just going on these trips a few times a year," she said. "I wanted to help my community and do something local, help bring awareness to the importance of bringing your pet to the vet each year, spay and neutering, and other reminders for pet health. Animals, whether they are born here or in another country, deserve to have the resources to care for them."
Paws for a Cause helps provide funding for pets' cancer treatment
Barbo also experienced a personal tragedy when her dog, Junior, was diagnosed with lymphoma and died 14 months later at age 6. JR's Paws for a Cause, named for him, works with charities that provide funding for cancer treatment in pets.
"I named the charity in memory of him, and a portion of all proceeds go to canine cancer treatment organizations," Barbo said. "We work through Cornell University's research program, as well as local financial aid through Kyle's Legacy, which offers financial aid if your pet comes down with cancer and you can't afford treatment. That portion really comes from my own experience with my Labrador that had lymphoma, a silver lining to something really unfortunate."
Owners are encouraged to bring their dogs to participate in the 5K. There are additional dog-related events, including booths hosted by local pet-centric businesses and dogs that are up for adoption through partner shelters with the event.
Barbo said there were more than 450 participants last year, despite heavy rain, and she expects to beat that number this year. Interested parties can register for the event at www.jrspawsforacause.com/events. Registration is $35 for adult participants with a dog, $30 for adults without a dog, and $15 for children under age 12. Those who register with a dog will get matching bibs for themselves and their dog. Prizes will be awarded to top finishers.
"Having so many people show up last year shows how important this issue is to our community, and it was very humbling to see that kind of impact we have been able to have," Barbo said. "We will have adoptable dogs from our three partner rescue organizations, we will have a DJ and other events. It's a lot of fun for everyone to come out, you don't have to run it, you can walk it, and we have awesome prizes and vouchers for the top winners."
This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Natick 5K pairs dogs and runners to raise money for canine causes
