Description
Run for the Dogs 5K features a fast, flat, and scenic course and proceeds from this event support a local rescue!
Join us on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 9:00 am for an exciting event that features the scenic views of Back Cove Park, Portland, ME and supports a local rescue. With awesome swag for all dog lovers and runners, this race is a sure thing for a great doggy good time! This race is timed and scored by J3 Timing. Results will be posted at www.J3Timing.com.
Registration Includes:
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T-Shirt
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Finisher Medal
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Dog Charm
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5k Run/Walk Entry
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Chip Timed Race Bib
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Live Race Results
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Finisher Photographs
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Finish Line Treats For Humans and Dogs!
Can I Run with My Pet? Absolutely! We are running to support pets, pet lovers, and animal charities! So you can run or walk with or without your pet! All pets that are participating must be on a short lead and well behaved.
Can I participate virtually? Yes, click here to register for our Virtual Run for the Dogs.
Start Time: All Participants will start at 9:00AM.
Packet Pickup: will be on race day beginning 1 hour prior to race start time.
Race Swag
Place
Back Cove Park
Portland, ME US 04101
Race Preview and 2026 Highlights
About Our Rescue
At Fairy Tails Rescue, we believe pets are family. Our mission is to keep them where they belong—at home, safe, cherished, and deeply loved, never alone on the streets or lost in the shelter system. We understand life can be unpredictable, and when families face financial hardship, it should never mean having to give up a beloved pet. That’s why we’re here—to offer financial support, understanding, and hope during difficult times. When keeping a pet is no longer possible, we walk alongside families with care and compassion, helping them find a loving, well-matched home where their pet can continue to thrive. We are also committed to preventing suffering before it starts by promoting spay and neuter for both personal pets and community animals, helping to reduce unwanted litters and the number of animals in need. Rooted in compassion and driven by community, we work to give every pet—and every person who loves them—a chance at a safe, happy, and truly magical “Fairy Tail” ending.
Course Map
Awards
Awards will be given in the following categories:
Overall Male/Female
Top 3 in Age Groups:
9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80 and over
Event Photos
FAQ's
Can I Run with My Pet? Absolutely! We are running to support pets, pet lovers, and animal charities! So you can run or walk with or without your LEASHED pet!
Can I participate virtually? Yes, click here to register for our Virtual Run for the Dogs. Virtual Packets will begin mailing on or around October 20th.
Are strollers allowed? You are welcome to use a stroller for this event but it is not recommended due to uneven ground on the course and children in strollers can participate for free and do not need to register.
Is walking allowed? Yes, Absolutely! We have as many walkers as we do runners (if not more!)
I still have questions, who do I contact? If you have a question, someone else probably does too. Email us using the "questions" button on this page, we would love to hear from you!
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
