2026 NOLA Dogs "Race to the Rescue" 5K Run/Walk

Event Details

Get ready to make a difference and have a great time at the 9th annual NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K for Animal Rescue on Sunday October 11, 2026. This unique race takes you through the stunning, historic grounds of Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery, hosted by Heaven’s Pets, where every step you take helps save animals in need. We’re calling on all animal lovers to join the cause and be part of the solution!

Participation in the 5K Run/Walk is for two-legged creatures (humans). Dogs are not allowed in the 5K Run/Walk and on the 5K Course.

This is a fundraising event. If you are unable to attend, please consider your fee a donation to animal rescue. Registration is limited to 1000.

Perks

• Commemorative T-Shirt
• Adorable Finisher Medal
• Goodie Bag
• Post-Race Refreshments
• A scenic run (or walk) through the historic Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery
• The incredible feeling of knowing you're helping animals in need!

Special Features

• Second line parade before the race with a live brass band.
• Blessing of the Pets after the race.
• First-place male and female finishers will win $100 cash and a trophy.
• Trophies for top fundraising teams.
• Online auction for art, restaurant gift cards, hotel stays, and more.

Schedule

• 7:00 am - Day of race Registration and Packet Pickup Opens
• 8:00 am - Pet Parade Walk (must be on leash)
• 8:30 am - Start of 5K Run Division
• 8:31 am - Start of 5K Walk Division
• 9:30 am - Blessing of the Pets
• 9:45 am - 5K Award presentations

Packet Pickup

• Pre-Race day: Friday, October 9th (3:00 pm - 6:00 pm) at Alice & Amelia Gift Shop, 4432 Magazine Street, New Orleans, La. 70115
• Day of race: At the race site (Heaven's Pets) opening at 7:00 am

Parking

Use the large parking lots adjacent to Lakelawn Metairie Cemetery funeral home. Parking on Avenue "W" will be restricted to race officials, sponsors, vendors. Please Do Not Park on grass.

Awards

• Custom commemorative finisher medallions to all official 5K Finishers.
• Awards - 5K Divisions: 1st overall male and female receive a Cash Award. Age group division awards for 1st place male and female in various age brackets. Numerous Random Awards will be given out.

Chip Timed Event

Please wear your bib number on the front only and visible. Your timing chip is affixed to the reverse side of the bib. Cross-check name label printed on bib to confirm your name. Each bib is issued specifically for each individual entrant.

Results & Photos

• Results posted soon after the event on www.NOLArunning.com.
• Live Streaming day of race on website.
• Photos posted soon after race on Facebook page: New Orleans Running Systems.

Refreshments

Pulled Pork Sliders, Kentwood Springs Water, Elmer's Chee Wees, Baker Maid products, Fruit, Beer, Food courtesy of several sponsors.

Event Race Director

Chuck George, New Orleans Running Systems Road Race Management (NORSI) 504-884-7565, [email protected]

Who do we support?

Proceeds from this race will be donated to: Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), Take Paws, Trampled Rose Rescue, Zeus' Rescues, The Inner Pup, and Rescue Warriors. These organizations are all 501(c)(3) non-profits dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals.