5 Dog-Friendly Thanksgiving Events

Before or after you (and perhaps your pooch) indulge in a Thanksgiving feast next week, here are some events around the country where the two of you can burn off a few calories or give thanks together – and help some worthy causes in the process.

CALIFORNIA

Father Joe’s 10th Anniversary Thanksgiving Day Run/Walk –
Thanksgiving Day at 8 a.m.
Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego (map)
Dogs on non-retractable leashes are welcome at this annual run to help Father Joe’s Villages serve 1.7 million meals each year to the homeless. This fun event includes a continental breakfast and a beer garden with live music. Registration fees are $15 to $30.

Peacock Acres 4th Annual Turkey Trot & Dog Walk – Saturday, Nov. 26 at 10 a.m.
Manzanita Park, 17100 Castroville Blvd., Prunedale (map)
This dog-friendly fundraiser benefits current and former foster youth in Peacock Acres, a group home serving Monterey County. Proceeds will provide holiday gifts for the kids and support a new learning center. The registration fee is $25.

OKLAHOMA

Edmond Turkey Trot – Thanksgiving Day at 8 a.m.
38 E. Main, Edmond (map)
Friendly dogs on leash can participate in the 5K turkey trot or 1-mile “Family Wobble” to benefit Turning Point Ministries. Last year, 800 people registered for the event. Along with medals for the fastest participants, the best-dressed trotter or wobbler will also win a prize. Registration fees are $10 to $25; children under 12 who don’t want a commemorative T-shirt can participate for free.

MASSACHUSETTS

2nd Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving – Sunday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m.
Calvary Episcopal Church, 46 Cherry St., Danvers (map)
People of all faiths are invited to bring their pets (on leash or in carriers) to this half-hour service celebrating companion animals. Candles will be lit in memory of pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. The church offers a pet-friendly service on the third Sunday of every month throughout the year as part of its Perfect Paws Pet Ministry. Free.

UTAH

2nd Annual Thanksgiving Day Snowshoe Hike Up Mill Creek – Thanksgiving Day at 10 a.m.
Meet at Dan’s Market, 3981 Wasatch Boulevard, Salt Lake City (map)
If you and your pooch really love the cold, grab your snowshoes and get in shape for the big meal by taking a 4.4-mile round-trip hike up a snowy trail. According to the website, the temperature only reached 7 degrees last year: “yes it was cold – but so worth it.” Free.

PHOTO: Cathy Stanley-Erickson

Laura Goldman

Laura Goldman is senior social media writer for i Love Dogs, Inc. She does love dogs. And elephants and turtles. Along with writing about the loves of her life, Laura likes to play with her two pound pups and tell anyone who’ll listen just how awesome Pit Bulls are.

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Category : Holiday Events &TRAVEL TIPS