The Caruthersville Humane Society is excited to be hosting the 20th Annual John VanAusdall 5K run and 2 mile walk on April 25, 2026. The race starts at 8 a.m. at the Caruthersville Public Library. Currently the shelter is accepting sponsorships for the race. Sponsorship levels begin at $100 and increase to $1500 in increments. All sponsors are displayed on the t-shirt and on the wall of the shelter year-round.
“We are so excited that we have reached event number 20,” Humane Society Director Karol Wilcox said, “This is our largest fundraiser of the year and definitely helps to keep the doors open. This event directly helps save many animals.”
Wilcox said that increasing numbers of animals in need and increasing cost of supplies and vetting have made running a shelter very challenging. “We have such a great community and we have been able to keep operating, but we count on the 5K every year to help us keep going,” Wilcox said, “This event is very critical for us.” Wilcox said that the shelter has seen a large increase in neglect and abuse and dogs that are just dumped or left behind. “We have seen a marked increase in dumped animals and animals left behind when a person moves,” Wilcox said, “Almost every animal that comes in our doors requires some type of vetting and care.”
Pre registration for the race is underway and registration forms can be picked up at the Diane Sayre Recreation Center, the Caruthersville Public Library or at the shelter. Pre-registration is $25 before the race and $30 on the day of the event. Walkers and runners receive a t-shirt. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the race start sat 8 a.m.
For more information you can contact the shelter at (573) 724-4045.