“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

The logical part of me thinks that dogs probably don’t experience joy, elation and anticipation in the same way that humans do, but it was a challenge to remain logical when witnessing the expressions and body language of dogs arriving at the Richmond SPCA’s Dog Jog and 5K Run on March 29. Full body tail wags, huge dog grins, and slobbery greetings don’t even begin to cover the spectacle of 500 dogs and their owners converging on one spot to celebrate and support the cause of caring for orphaned animals. I will admit there were a few dubious canines in the crowd, but the proud, beaming faces of their owners seemed to make up for any temporary misgivings.

Many of the canine attendees were former residents of the Richmond SPCA and it was such a pleasure to see old friends and to connect in person with people whose lives have been made more joyful by the adoption of a companion from our facility.  What I think I will remember most are the smiles, and I suspect that many people found that spending some time helping out the Richmond SPCA on a cool Spring morning can be a meaningful, and surprisingly hilarious, act of kindness. Come see for yourself at the Seventh Annual Dog Jog and 5K Run in March 2008!

Maya Erhardt is the Manager of Community Development at the Richmond SPCA. Visit www.richmondspca.org/race for race day photos, award winners and more.

P.S. I heard a few rumblings about the need for a Cat Walk and 5K Run…but I think logic may have to win out on that one!

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