Who let the dogs out? Northern California dog lovers, that’s who!

More than 500 northern California dog lovers rallied to fight canine cancer on Saturday, May 7, for the 3rd annual Morris Animal Foundation K9 Cancer Walk in Elk Grove, Calif. The event raised more than $70,000 for Morris Animal Foundation’s Canine Cancer Campaign. The campaign funds research to prevent, treat and, ultimately, cure cancer in dogs.

Cancer is a cause that touches many of us; that is why this year Morris Animal Foundation debuted a bubble remembrance ceremony for all dogs that have died of cancer. The event also celebrated dogs that have beaten cancer, by gathering all furry best friends and their owners for a joyous survivor ceremony. Participants enjoyed this unique opportunity to honor their best friends.

To add to the day’s fun, teams were encouraged to show their team spirit by participating in the Top Dogs Contest—and the friendly competition continued until the end.

Top Dog Contest Winners

Top Team: Team Homeward Bound with more than $7,000 raised
Most Team Members: WAG, Inc. with nearly 60 members
Top Fundraiser (individual): Wolfgang Jilka, of Team Homeward Bound, with more than $1,900 raised
Most Spirit: For the second year in a row, Team Greyhound. The greyhounds raised more than $1,600 for the K9 Cancer Walk!

Thank you to the local and national event sponsors and media partners:
Eukanuba, Fetch!, Franklin Ranch Pet Hospital and Hotel, Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic, The Orvis Company, Paul Mitchell Schools and John Paul Pet, Petplan, PetSafe, V101.1 and VCA Animal Hospitals.

Photos from the event can be found here.

Morris Animal Foundation is grateful to our wonderful volunteers, including our volunteer planning committee, participants and team captains for their commitment to Morris Animal Foundation’s Canine Cancer Campaign. With your help, the 3rd annual K9 Cancer Walk was a huge success!