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

The NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue is an annual 5K run/walk on the grounds of Heaven's Pets at Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans. It is a fundraiser for animal rescue groups in South Louisiana, with money going to no-kill nonprofit rescues around New Orleans. The 5K is for people only, and runners and walkers can also enter virtually. The event is built around dogs even though they do not run the 5K: pets can join the Second Line Dog Parade and the Blessing of the Pets. NOLA DOGS Charitable Giving is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) founded by JoAnne Casey, owner of Alice and Amelia, and it also runs a major dog auction every October. The group has raised $225,000, supporting rescues that often care for heartworm-positive animals needing immediate veterinary treatment.