Little Guild to hold 5th Annual Run & Wag 5K

WEST CORNWALL — The Little Guild of St. Francis animal shelter will hold the 5th annual Run & Wag 5K Race, Saturday, October 13th, with festivities beginning at 10 a.m., and the race starting at 12 p.m.

The all-inclusive event welcomes racers who run or walk, and entrants can participate solo or in doghuman pairs.

“Watching the doghuman teams work together really underscores the strong relationships that people form with their pets, which is the backbone of the Little Guild’s mission,” said Justin Vagliano, the Guild’s Executive Director, in a written statement. “In fact, this year I’m running with my Little Guild alum Lily, a super sweet pittie who joined my family last year. The Run & Wag is a great venue to show off how amazing rescue animals can be as pets and partners.”

Held on the Cornwall Village green, the out-andback 5K route is blessedly flat along the Coltsfoot Valley, showcasing spectacular autumn scenery as you go. The entrance fee is $25 for solo runners or teams ($15 for those under 18 years old). Prizes are awarded across several categories, including the “Connecticut Doggie Cup” to the fastest human/canine teams. More details and sign-up links can be found at https://runandwag5k.com/

In addition to the race event, this year’s Run & Wag 5K features a special celebration to honor Little Guild alumni: “October 2018 marks not only five years of the Run & Wag, but also five years to the month since one of our biggest rescue operations — 46 Maltese pups saved from a hoarding situation and successfully adopted out to loving homes,” said Vagliano. “To mark the anniversary, we’re holding a parade of ALL Little Guild alumni at the Run & Wag, as well as collecting stories online from our dog and cat adopters, whether or not they can attend.”

Adopters are invited to register at https://www.littleguild.org/2018alumnireunion.

More than just a race, the Run & Wag 5K is a true fall festival with vendors from the Cornwall Farmers’ Market and the area, food trucks and bluegrass music. Leashed dogs are welcome.

The Little Guild of St. Francis opened in Cornwall in 1960 and saves, cares for, and homes approximately 300 cats and dogs per year. It also offers various services to help keep pets and families together.

For more information about the Little Guild, visit www.littleguild.org or call 860-672-6346.