Run the Pines for Canines Set for Saturday

With your running shoes on and leash in hand, animal lovers and supporters of Popcorn Park Zoo can participate in the 5K Run the Pines for Canines on Saturday, June 9.

Justin Rand, 22, of Lacey Township called the 5K his “little pet project” with a synergy between active people and animals.

“I’m very big into fitness and also animals obviously,” he said. “There aren’t many events where you can run with your pet. I thought this would be a nice niche to fill.”

Rand grew up visiting Popcorn Park as a kid and became a volunteer after adopting his cocker spaniel.

Knowing the “amazing work” Popcorn Park does, the Rand’s knew that’s where they would get their next dog, he said.

He has now been volunteering for about two-and-a-half years. The volunteer program includes dog walking, socializing with the cats, running bake sales and more.

“It’s something I really enjoy,” he said.

Now Rand has kick started what he hopes will be an annual fundraiser that will raise awareness of Popcorn Park and the animals it helps, he said.

The run will begin at 9 a.m. Same day registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Popcorn Park sign on Lacey Road. Registration is $30. Entry forms can also be found at Popcorn Park, the high school, Ultimate Gym and Fitness Center. Runners can also sign up online at Active.com.

The route will go from the Popcorn Park entrance, around the Bamber Lake recreation area and back.

For participants, the day will include post race refreshments, a ceremony, free admission into Popcorn Park and t-shirts.

All proceeds from the race will benefit the animals at Popcorn Park, which includes domestic, wildlife, exotics, farm animals and birds.

Proceeds will also benefit the rescue and volunteer funds, which will help with the medical treatment and care of Popcorn Park’s shelter dogs. The shelter typically houses approximately 100 dogs at a time.

The following businesses have sponsored the event in some shape or form: Applebees provided a gift certificate, Wawa donated drinks, Forked River House and Shop-Rite are providing food for the after-race party; Camp Bow Wow will give free baths to any dogs that their owners have signed up at Camp Bow Wow; Lacey Pet Supply will be donating treats and a gift certificate. The Foundation for Wellness Professionals will be donating free chair massages to all participants! 

“We’ve been really lucky. A lot of local businesses have rallied around the cause,” Rand said.