Going to the Dogs

Hundreds of humans and their four-legged companions took to the track on Saturday morning. The Humane Society Naples held its 18th annual Run for the Paws at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, with the 5K run – or walk, if running roughly three miles seemed outside your comfort zone – raising awareness and funds for the no-kill animal shelter.

As is generally the case at such events, participants fell into one of two camps. There was the larger group of people (and dogs at this race) who were there to support the organization, have some healthy exercise, and socialize with like-minded neighbors. Then there were the true competitors who were “in it to win it,” and covered the distance as fast as they could – and hopefully faster than the other hardcore runners. 

Of course, the dogs could have taken all the top spots in the finishing bracket with ease if they were not slowed down by the humans at the other end of the leash. So, while trophies were given out for Fastest Dog, and a note was taken of the order of dogs finishing down to double digits, the dogs could only go as fast as their race buddy could keep up. 

That said, canine Mila, accompanied by Steven Iannaccone, continued her remarkable streak, with the nine-year-old dog finishing as first dog for the ninth year in a row. The pair covered the five kilometers in 20 minutes, 33 seconds, with Iannaccone finishing as second human, behind only Steve Hankey, who clocked in at 20:00.07. 

First female and second dog went to the team of Lauren Osborne and Apollo, with a time of 20:44. Pointing out that last year Apollo was third dog, fourth dog the year before that, and fifth dog finisher the previous race, she issued fair warning to all contenders, and perhaps especially to Iannaccone and Mila – “we’re moving up.” 

Denise and Franklin Bowes, walking with bulldog Frenchie, took a much more relaxed approach to the day, ambling along at their own pace well after the pack had streamed off into the distance. Melody Manganey, with Tessa her Norfolk terrier mix, had similar thoughts. “We’re just hoping we can do three miles,” said Melody. 

As each runner or team finished the course, which wound through the Paradise Coast grounds, they were greeted by Yonise Pierre, Orlanedia Nelson, and Maria de la Cruz, an energetic trio of Lely High School cheerleaders. They had their timing chips removed and received Olympic-style medals to go around their necks – the humans, that is. The dogs just got a “good boy” or “good girl” and a long drink of water. 

Actually, they got more than that. A number of sponsors and vendors had tables set up near the finish line, and there was significant dog-related swag given out. Leashes, chew toys, and doggie snacks were available from vendors, including Urgent Vet (slogan: your pet can’t wait to feel better), Collier County Domestic Animal Services, Mad Batter Pet Bakery, and Pet Supplies Plus. They were joined by Emergency Pet Hospital of Collier County and Scoop Soldiers (slogan: never leave a pile behind), who have apparently built their business model with a pooper scooper. Subaru of Naples was the presenting sponsor. 

There was also a “virtual 5k run” option for those who wanted to help the dogs without breaking a sweat. Funds raised will go to helping the general work of the Humane Society, said Rebecca Thompson, Humane Society Naples annual fund manager, items such as providing heartworm medicine for dogs taken in at the shelter.

Humane Society Naples, a Charity Navigator four-star award recipient, is supported entirely by private donations. For more information on the mission of the Humane Society, to volunteer or learn about the many ways people can help save and improve the lives of animals in our community, contact Thompson at 239-643-1555 or go online to hsnaples.org.