Events
5K Run (Timed)
5K Fun Run/Walk
Cat Napper
Donuts and Dogs 5K & Fun Run Rescheduled!!!
New Date: October 3 2026
Dear Donuts & Dogs Participant,
As many of you know, on June 10th, the Animal Protective League took a direct hit from a devastating tornado that destroyed both our shelter and clinic buildings. In the days that followed, our staff and volunteers focused on ensuring the safety of our animals while beginning the enormous task of cleanup and recovery.
Because of the damage and the challenges that followed, we unfortunately had to postpone the Donuts & Dogs 5K & Fun Run.
We are excited to announce that the 2026 APL Donuts & Dogs 5K & Fun Run has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Southwind Park.
The best news is that your current registration has automatically been transferred to the new date. There is nothing you need to do—your paid registration will be honored on October 3.
We know this change may have affected your plans, and we sincerely appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support during this incredibly difficult time. Your participation means more than ever as we work to rebuild and continue providing care for the thousands of animals who depend on APL each year.
Additional event details, including packet pickup information and race reminders, will be sent as we get closer to October 3.
Thank you for standing with the Animal Protective League through this challenging chapter. We can't wait to see you at Southwind Park this fall for a memorable day of fun, community, and hope for the animals.
With gratitude,
Animal Protective League Team
Here Are Your Options:
Place
Description
Join us for a fun day at Southwind Park in support of the Animal Protective League (APL).
Get ready to race and raise funds for the animals of APL! This year's race will include a timed 5K Run and a Fun Run/Walk for both you and your canine companions, if you choose to bring them. Registration is $30 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. You can also set up your own individual or team fundraiser to raise additional money for the animals. Don't want to race but want to support APL's mission? Sign up as a cat napper for $30 and receive a personalized thank you card from an APL dog or cat!
Register by May 22nd to receive a free race t-shirt.
Registration closes at midnight on Octoober 1st and race packet pick-up is October 2nd from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at APL, 1001 Taintor Road. Limited packet pick-up will be available on the day of the race. There will be no on-site registration.
If you want to race with your dog, they need to be sociable, well-behaved, up-to-date on all vaccinations, have proof of current rabies vaccine, be leashed at all times and be at least four months of age.
We will also have an exciting costume contest that you and your pet can participate in, as well as vendors and other fun activities! Mel-O-Cream donuts will be provided before the race for all participants.
Schedule
May 22nd - Early Registration with Free Tshirt ends.
October 1st - Registration closes at midnight.
October 2nd - Race Packet Distribution 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. at APL
October 3rd - Race Day
9:00 a.m. Visit with our Vendors. Limited race day packet distribution (no on-site registration)
9:30 a.m. Costume Contest
10:00 a.m. Timed Race
10:30 a.m. Award Ceremony for Costume Contest and Timed Race
11:00 a.m. Fun Run/Walk
12:00 p.m. Event Ends
Race Prize Categories
Overall 1st Place 5K Female
Overall 1st Place 5K Male
Overall Canine – 1st Canine across the finish line
Overall 1st Place 12 and Under Female
Overall 1st Place 12 and Under Male
Costume Contest - Best Costume
Waiver
All participants must fill out a waiver prior to the race. Please download, print and complete this waiver and bring it with you when you come to pick up your race packets. This will greatly speed up your packet pick-up!
Click the icon below to download the attached PDF.
Race Contact Info
Directions
Southwind Park, Springfield, IL
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