MAY 9TH, 2026  //  BOAR'S HEAD RESORT

13th annual bow-wow-walk

Where Charlottesville comes together for a joy-filled morning of movement, connection, and compassion, all in support of the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA. Featuring a 5K trail run, a community dog walk, and more, this family-friendly, dog-forward event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities while raising critical funds to care for animals in need and the people who love them.


View Run Sign-Up
Runners at bow-wow-walk

WHY BOW-WOW-WALK MATTERS:

Every step taken and every dollar raised helps power the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA’s lifesaving work.

Your support fuels:

  • Compassionate shelter care
  • Lifesaving medical treatment
  • Community programs that keep pets and families together
  • Second chances for thousands of animals each year

easy ways to start

community dog walk

1.

Register to run

2.

register for the community dog walk

3.

register for the kids dash

BECOME A FUNDRAISER

Peer-to-peer fundraising is one of the most powerful ways to make an impact! Create your own fundraising page, set a goal, and invite your community to give. Every dollar you raise helps provide food, shelter, and lifesaving medical care for animals in need.

Let's Go!

Rally your pack and compete for fun local prizes with partners like Great Outdoor Provisions, Dairy Market, Sal’s Italian, SunPins, and Southwest Mountains Vineyards, plus fitness classes from Relay Active, cycling perks from Pūrvelo.

Become a vendor

Join us as a vendor at this year’s race and connect with a vibrant, community-minded audience of runners, families, and animal lovers. Our event brings together hundreds of local supporters for a high-energy day focused on health, connection, and giving back.

Vendor Fee: $50
Payment may be made by cash or check.

To reserve your space, please complete the vendor application form (PDF available below) and return it along with payment. Forms may be: Emailed (completed PDF attached), Dropped off in-person at the SPCA Shelter at 3355 Berkmar Drive, Or Mailed with payment to: c/o Lauren Thomas, 3355 Berkmar Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901

Vendor Application