5k Helps Make It Possible For Pets To Have A Second Chance

Participants take off on the K-9 5k on Saturday morning.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The sky was grey, and the radar indicated that it could be just a matter of time before the rain started to come down.

The K-9 5k is now in its 7th year and replaced Woofstock as the fall fundraiser for the shelter.

Shana Smith explained that the money raised from the 5k would help Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter financially, helping to fund the day-to-day operations at the facility. The K-9 5k is the non-profit’s second-largest fundraiser behind caramel apple sales at Valentine’s Day.

At the moment, approximately 18 cats and 12 dogs are under their care at the shelter.

Crystal Sodak participated in the walk on Saturday, something she’s done previously. At her side for the trek was her dog Mini.

“I’ve been a big supporter of the animal shelter, and I’m on the Humane Society,” said Sodak.

Her companion Mini was adopted by Sodak seven years ago. Mini was excited to go, “When you tell her she’s gonna go for a walk she gets excited.

Sodak encouraged those interested to come out and visit the new shelter and help support it. “It’s a wonderful group of people.”