BELFAST — Paces for PAWS, the first of four events in the 2024 RunBelfast series of runs, will be held on Saturday, June 15. Proceeds from Paces for PAWS will benefit the PAWS Animal Adoption Center in Camden.

The event provides an opportunity to bring your dog, family and friends for a fun morning of exercise and camaraderie for a “run” or leisurely walk along the Rail Trail in Belfast while providing an opportunity to help homeless and abandoned animals receive the medical care, shelter and companionship they need until their forever homes are found. ​

If you bring your dog along for the run or walk, it must be on a 6-foot non-retractable leash. You must have proof of rabies vaccination and town registration, poop bags and water. While on the trail be on the lookout for Petey, a big friendly dog who will be greeting participants along the way.

For those who just want to help PAWS, there will be a walk-a thon giving people the opportunity to collect pledges to raise money for the organization.

Paces for Paws begins at the Train Depot terminus of the Rail Trail at 1R3 Oak Hill Road in Belfast, where parking is available.

The event includes a 5K fun run/walk and a one mile walk. All runners and walkers will receive a participation medal.

There are three event categories: Adult 5K fun run (ages five and over as of 6/15/24); Youth 5k Fun Run (under 16 years old as of 6/15/24) and one mile walk (ages five and over as of 6/15/24).

You can register on line at www.runbelfast.org for all categories or at the race site the morning of the event beginning at 8:30 a.m. The registration fee is $35.

During the pre-registration for the Paces for PAWS 5K on June 15 there will be a special sign-up sheet available for individuals who plan to participate in all four RunBelfast events. Other events in the RunBelfast 2024 race series are the Rotary Bug Run 5K on August 17; the Center for Wildlife Studies Run Wild! 5K/10K on September 14 and the Lions Ghostly Gallop on October 26. By completing the sheet entries and paying a fee of $80, an individual will be registered for all four runs and be eligible for any run related goodies.

“RunBelfast is grateful for the support provided by City of Belfast Parks and Recreation Department,” said PAWS, in a news release.

Established in 1974, the mission of PAWS Animal Adoption Center is to provide care for homeless dogs and cats until they can be placed in permanent, responsible homes, while promoting humane values in our community through outreach and educational programs.

PAWS now runs a Cares Community Veterinary Clinic, by appointment, offering exams, core vaccines, flea and tick medication, heartworm testing and prevention, Lyme testing and prevention, spay and neuter services, basic laboratory testing and non-emergency illnesses to low-income pet owners. To learn more about PAWS services please visit www.pawscares.org.