It’s fun for both you and your dog to take a walk on the beach, but that isn’t the only thing you and your canine companion can do in New Jersey. Here are 5 fun dog-friendly Jersey shore events in the upcoming months.
Jersey Shore Undy Run/Walk
On July 16th at 8:00 a.m., most people will be getting dressed. At the Undy Run/Walk at the Great Lawn at Pier Village in Long Branch, however, participants will be getting undressed to raise money for the Colon Cancer Alliance. Runners and walkers are encouraged to bring their silliest underwear and their dogs to the 5k.
Strut Your Mutt
On July 31st at 9:00 a.m., The Hungry Puppy Park in Farmingdale will celebrate National Mutt Day by hosting a huge puppy play date. Owners can also gush about their adorable pets over coffee and doughnuts.
National Dog Day Celebration
On August 31st, the boardwalk in Seaside Heights will hold its 2nd National Dog Day Celebration. Participating restaurants and bars will allow dogs and vendors will sell toys and treats along the boardwalk. Representatives from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit will also be in attendance.
Wildwood Doggie Dash
On September 10th at 8:00 a.m., the Wild Half race series continues with the Doggie Dash! Pet owners and their dogs can run together on the Wildwood Boardwalk to win prizes. There are 1 mile, 5k, and 7k distance options. The races will start and finish at Morey’s Pier. Dogs must be leashed during the race. The registration fees benefit Team Foster, a nonprofit that pairs service dogs with veterans in ill health relating to combat. Registered owners will receive a T-shirt and a medal for finishing the race, and their dogs will receive special dog tags. There will be an afterparty on the pier with food for both humans and dogs, music, and beer. Aggressive and unleashed dogs are not allowed to race. Owners must present proof of vaccination, especially rabies. Racers can purchase discounted tickets to Morey’s Pier all weekend.
Fetch & Pounce 5k
On September 17th at 9:00 a.m., North Brunswick Community Park will host its second annual 5k to benefit Karma Cat and Zen Dog Rescue Society. Register a month in advance and receive a custom t-shirt! Participating pups should be well-mannered and leashed, and owners are expected to clean up after them. The race starts west of the Dog Park and ends near the maintenance garage. Refreshments as well as race results and awards will be located by the finish line.
Hounds and Harriers Run
On October 8th at 10:00 a.m., head to the South Mountain Reservation in South Orange for a 3-mile run benefiting Home for Good Dog Rescue, Somerset Reg Animal Shelter, 11th Hour Rescue, and the National Canine Cancer Foundation. Participants receive a colorful t-shirt and a dog bandana to match. There will be awards for the top 10 as well as categories like male and female, 1st shelter adoptees, older dogs, and small and large weights. “Retired” dogs who cannot run 3 miles can participate in a shorter run after the main event. Dogs must be vaccinated. Only 150 people can enter, so sign up ASAP!
Your dog might not be allowed on every beach or in every hotel, store, or restaurant, but these dog-friendly Jersey shore events won’t separate you from your four-legged friend!