The Georgia Volunteer Chapter for Canine Companions for Independence will host their eigth annual fundraiser, Athens Run for the Dogs, in Athens, Georgia. It will be held at Sandy Creek Park, 400 Bob Hollman Road on Saturday, September 25, 2010.

The event will include a 5K race for runners and a 1-mile fun run and walk for people and their dogs. Dogs may participate in all but the 5K race. The entrance fee for race participants is $22 per person in advance and $27 per person the day of the event. Dogs can participate with their owners for free. The entrance fee includes a t-shirt for registered humans and a bandana for participating dogs. Check-in and registration will start at 8:00 a.m. and races will begin at 9:00 a.m.

In addition to the races there will be a raffle. Tickets are $2.00 each. There will also be a silent auction. Other activities include testing for AKC Canine Good Citizenship and Therapy Dogs International, games for people and their dogs, pet-related vendors and entertainment.

All proceeds from this event will benefit Canine Companions for Independence, a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly-trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. The specially bred and trained dog, training of the recipient, and regular follow-up services by Canine Companions for Independence professional staff are provided to its recipients at no cost for the working life of the team.

Click here to view photos from the 2009 Athens Run for the Dogs.