Thousands Attend Sacramento SPCA's 'Doggy Dash' at William Land Park

Annual event raises funds for animal care and adoptions

Apr. 19, 2026 at 4:27am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a playful dog running in a park, repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the energy and community spirit of the 'Doggy Dash' event.The 'Doggy Dash' event at William Land Park brought together thousands of dog owners and animal lovers to support the Sacramento SPCA's vital work.Today in Sacramento

Over 2,000 people and their dogs participated in the Sacramento SPCA's annual 'Doggy Dash' event at William Land Park on Saturday. The 2K and 5K walks, along with the 'Bark in the Park' festival, helped raise funds to support the organization's care for more than 40,000 animals each year through medical treatments, vaccinations, and training programs.

Why it matters

The 'Doggy Dash' is a popular annual event that brings the local community together to support the important work of the Sacramento SPCA. By drawing thousands of dog owners and animal lovers, the event helps raise critical funds and awareness for the organization's efforts to provide medical care, adoptions, and other services for animals in need.

The details

The 'Doggy Dash' featured 2K and 5K walks that participants completed with their dogs. In addition, the 'Bark in the Park' festival had over 1,000 attendees enjoying the festivities. The event helps fund the Sacramento SPCA's care for more than 40,000 animals annually, including medical treatments, low-cost vaccinations, and training programs.

  • The 'Doggy Dash' took place on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • The event wrapped up at 1 p.m. that day.

The players

Sacramento SPCA

A non-profit organization that provides care and services for animals in the Sacramento, California area, including medical treatment, adoptions, and community programs.

Jennifer Brent

A representative of the Sacramento SPCA who commented on the event.

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What they’re saying

“I think the best part about 'Doggie Dash' is seeing so many amazing, loved animals. And I think what people enjoy is being able to spend time outside with their pet on a beautiful day.”

— Jennifer Brent, Sacramento SPCA Representative

What’s next

Organizers were hopeful they would meet their goal of raising more than $220,000 through the 'Doggy Dash' event.

The takeaway

The 'Doggy Dash' is an annual celebration that brings the Sacramento community together to support the important work of the local SPCA, raising funds and awareness for animal welfare initiatives that benefit thousands of pets each year.