First Annual Doggie Dash 5k in Sussex County

Paws of Tomorrow is a volunteer based, 501c3 non-profit group of animal lovers. They are based out of the Ocean View, DE area but their fosters live throughout MD and DE. (Photo Credit: Paws of Tomorrow)
“You don’t just adopt an animal if you think it’s cute. We want to make sure that the adoption will be successful in the long run, so we take aspects of lifestyle into account.”
Paws of Tomorrow has rescued over 3000 dogs since its establishment in 2008. The organization offers “vetting for seriously injured dogs that would otherwise not receive a second chance at life because of the circumstances in shelters.” They strive to give animals the best chance at being adopted, even if their situations are not the most ideal. The animals are then spayed, neutered, and brought up to date with any shots required. Over time, these animals also receive obedience training and are evaluated for temperament and personality. This is to ensure the animals are placed in the best home.

Paws of Tomorrow takes the old, the injured, the sick, the ugly, and the scared dogs. This requires a dedicated group of volunteers. (Photo Credit: Paws of Tomorrow)
The organizer of the event, Mispillion Fitness General Manager Steven Shane, says both he and his wife are dog lovers, so they had to reach out.
“We’re big dog people, we’ve always loved animals. Not a lot of people do things for the dog charities…It’s just something we’re very passionate about, so we had to do something.”

Coffee is an 8 year old Italian Greyhound available for adoption. (Photo Credit: Paws of Tomorrow)
The event was held at Mispillion Brewing and was a 5k run and a one mile walk. Some participants brought their dogs along for the one mile walk.
The event had vendors and a fenced off area where people could interact with some of the dogs from Paws of Tomorrow. According to Shane, each participant received a tote bag, donated by Fur-Baby, filled with a t-shirt, Frisbee and tennis ball for their dog as well as one beer ticket good for the Post Race Pint Party that was held at Mispillion Brewing after the race. Abbott’s Grill also provided food for the after party.