Greg Herringer
Guide dogs — and good dogs — accompanied by their human companions are welcome to take part in the fourth annual RunGo Dash for Dogs Feb. 24 in Stanley Park.
Participants can choose between a guided 10 km, 5 km or 2 km run or walk with proceeds dedicated to B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs.
B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs breeds, raises and professionally trains dogs for individuals who are blind or visually-impaired at no cost to the recipient. The goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals living with little to no vision by providing a professionally trained guide dog. It can take two years and cost up to $35,000 to produce each guide dog so the organization relies on the generosity of donors, which allows the group to provide these life-changing companions free of charge to families.
Guide dogs enable blind or visually impaired recipient to move around safely and independently. Based on their handler’s directions, trained dogs safely guide their human partner around obstacles, through intersections, up stairs, through doors and around other obstacles.
As well, the organization supplies support dogs to children living with autism aged three to 10 years old and their families, again at no cost. An autism support dog can increase the safety and security of a child with moderate to profound autism — a parent holds the dog’s leash while the child is physically tethered to the dog via a safety harness. This prevents the child from bolting or wandering off. Autism support dogs can also help improve the child’s ability to participate in education and social and leisure activities because the canine may reduce the stress associated with these situations.
The RunGo Dash for Dogs is just one of the fundraisers B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs holds annually. The 2017 event raised $17,000 and the goal this year is to reach the full $35,000. This fun and non-competitive race wanders through the beautiful trails in Stanley Park. After the run, participants can enjoy pancakes, prizes and good tunes. While this is a race for participants to support dogs, you don't need a dog to run. Dogs that do take part must be on leash and under control at all times for the safety of the working guide dogs. Prizes will be awarded for the top fundraisers, biggest teams, best costume, photos, best dog trick and more.
Event details
Start location: Brockton Pavilion (1151 Stanley Park Dr.)
Start date: Feb. 24
Start times: 10 km: 9 a.m., 5 km: 9:15 a.m., 2 km 9:30 a.m.
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