By Rolando Rodriguez Soto, Reporter
Fuzzy Friends Rescue is hosting their third annual zombie run to raise funds and encourage Waco to be a safe environment for pets. The fresh, or rather undead, take on the traditional fundraiser will be held at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at Indian Spring Park in downtown Waco.
The Heart of Texas Comic Con is this year’s presenting sponsor for the zombie run. In addition to participants dressing up as zombies, runners are also welcome to wear their favorite superhero costumes. Prizes will be awarded to the best superhero and zombie costume for both humans and dogs.
Through today, the 5k run will cost $25. On the day of the race, the price will increase to $30. The 1k pet walk will be $15.
“It helps raise awareness that we have homeless animals in the community that need homes and medical help,” said Nicole Wilson, previous participant in the race and director of administration and finance at Fuzzy Friends. “We just want to let people know that Fuzzy Friends is there and ready to help.”
The response from the zombie run has been great, and the proceeds from the event are going to the Angel Heart Medical Fund to provide the necessary funds to help animals in need, said Betsy Robinson, the executive director and founder of Fuzzy Friends.
Angel Heart helps Fuzzy Friends through funding vaccinations, rabies shots, heartworm tests, deworming, spay or neuter and surgery for other special circumstances.
Robinson mentioned Leela, a cat that was mauled by dogs, and Snowball, a pregnant dog that was hit by a car. Both animals were brought to Fuzzy Friends, and the Angel Heart Medical Fund helped to fund the surgery and recovery. Leela was able to have her damaged eye removed and Snowball was able to deliver her puppies. Both have made a full recovery.
Fuzzy Friends offers a home to homeless and unwanted animals. It is a no kill rescue facility, and their goal is to provide a permanent home for the animals as soon as possible.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 2.7 million animals are euthanized in the United States, and only 26 percent of dogs and 5 percent of cats that enter shelters are returned to their owners.
Fuzzy Friends is the largest no kill rescue within a 100-mile radius. It houses 150 animals, and every week they are pulling animals from the pound to welcome them to a safe environment.
The goal of Fuzzy Friends is to make Waco a no kill city, Robinson said. Currently, 90 percent of animals in Waco will not be killed.
At the event, all dogs must be kept on a four foot leash, be current on required vaccinations and wear a collar displaying a current rabies tag. All preregistered participants will receive a race t-shirt, goodie bag, timed results for the 5k race and refreshments. Dave’s Burger Barn will be on site with food available to purchase.
For more information on registration and regulations for pets, visit Fuzzy Friends Rescue’s website.
