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May 12: Strutting Mutts Help Animal Shelter

Six-legged teams of walkers, runners and their dog companions will fill Dearborn's Ford Field on May 12 for the 13th annual Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit (FAMD) Mutt Strut. The 5K run and 2.2 mile walk is Metro Detroit's only springtime pet-friendly run and walk.
"It's one of the highlights of our year, seeing all the dogs and people enjoying the fun and fresh air," said Elaine Greene, FAMD's executive director. "We especially like seeing shelter alumni return with their new owners."
The Mutt Strut welcomes families and individuals of all skill levels for the run and walk along Dearborn's Gateway Trail. It begins at 8 a.m. for runners and 10 a.m. for walkers. Dogs are not required for participation.
In addition to the race and walk, Ford Field in Dearborn will host food trucks, family-friendly entertainment, demonstrations and a shopping area for pet owners. A lure course for active dogs will challenge racing skills, and an agility course is also free for dogs wishing to show off their tricks. Food trucks and events will run before, during and after the official walk and run, until 1 p.m.
Participants can register individually or as a team. The 2017 Mutt Strut raised more than $82,000. Said Greene, "Mutt Strut is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year. Especially with our new shelter opening up in the Fall, we're proud of how far we've come and what we've accomplished. But there's always more to do, and this day really helps us show off our great shelter animals."
The course winds through the side streets and parks of Dearborn with full support from the community according to Greene.
"It's great to see the neighbors come out and support our walkers and runners," she said. "Especially when they bring their dogs too."
Runner registration in advance is $45 and $50 the morning of the event. All runners receive a timing bib, an official Mutt Strut Walk & Run t-shirt and a commemorative medal. Walkers who register in advance and raise more than $45 in pledges also receive a Mutt Strut t-shirt and a dog bandana. If participants choose not to raise funds for the event, they are still welcome to join the walk and the fair at Ford Field in Dearborn.
More information on the event can be found at famdmuttstrut.org.

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