Blog Events

40 Years of Fido and Friends 5k – Join Us!

Join Us for the 40th Annual Fido and Friends 5K Fun Run/Walk! 🐾🏃‍♂️

Calling all dog lovers, runners and ECCHA supporters! It’s time to leash up your furry friend and join us for the 40th Annual Fido and Friends 5K Fun Run/Walk! This year, we are pulling out all the stops at our new location in River Prairie Park:

📅 Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
🕗 Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: River Prairie, Altoona, WI (Meet at the pavilion near the river and Staybridge Suites)


Two Routes, Double the Fun

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a leisurely stroll, we’ve got you covered. Choose between:

  • 5K Route: For those ready to get their heart racing with their active pets
  • One full loop around River Prairie park and neighborhoods of Altoona
  • 1-Mile(ish) Route: Perfect for a casual walk with your pet
  • Leisurely stroll along the river, looping back around and staying in the park

Dogs welcome (and encouraged!) for both! Please note this event will see many dogs – set your pet up for success and leave them home if they will not do well here. 


Fitness and (Fun)draising

This beloved annual event isn’t just about getting outside with your dog—it’s about making a difference for homeless pets in our community. By participating, you’re helping support ECCHA and our mission. Every step you take with your furry friend helps fund programs that improve the lives of pets in need.

For an added impact, all participants are asked to fundraise! Rally your friends to support a cause you care deeply about – register on your own or with a team to increase your funds!

  • Prizes and giveaways for participants
  • Opportunities to meet other pet-loving runners
  • A morning of fun + philanthropy

Registration & Important Details

  • Registration Fee: $40 for adults (inclues t-shirt) FREE for kids under 12 (does not include t-shirt)
  • Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring their leashed pets. No Flexi leads please.
  • If you are bringing a furry friend that is not a dog, they must be contained in a stroller or backpack-style carrier.
  • After the event, stick around and explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions at River Prairie.
  • Plus, join the city of Altoona for their 4th of July celebration ending with fireworks (ECCHA does not recommend brining your pets to fireworks. Learn more about noise fear here.)

For more information or to register, visit our registration website.


Save the date to celebrate your love of pets. Grab your sneakers, leash up your best friend, and let’s make this 40th annual Fido and Friends Fun Run/Walk the biggest one yet! 🐕💨

Contact Us

Whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer or simply want to chat about your love for animals, we’re all ears (and paws). Contact us today!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.