Hi friends,

Freedom and me at Sunday’s Long Island Cares 5K—my first in-person race in years.

Years ago, after adopting Scout and Liberty from Kent Animal Shelter, I discovered something a runner couldn’t easily ignore.

The distance from my home to the shelter, door to door, was 26.2 miles.

A marathon!!!!

And their shelter cards had described them as ready to run.

So there I was: a runner, dogs ready to run, and a marathon-length route back to the place that brought us together.

What was I supposed to do with that information?

We ran a marathon.

First, I ran it with Scout. Later, I ran it with Scout and Liberty. Along the way, we raised money for Kent Animal Shelter—the place that gave me those two wonderful running partners.

Running partners, fundraising partners, and companions through so many miles.

Those miles became part of our story. Running gave us time together, adventures together, and a way to help other animals waiting for their own people.

Now, another connection has landed right in front of me.

I have a dog named Freedom.

And on October 24, there’s a race called the Paws for Freedom 5K Run & Walk, supporting Paws of War.

Really. What’s a runner supposed to do with that information?

I signed up.

On Sunday, Freedom and I participated in the Long Island Cares 5K—my first in-person race in years. Being out there again brought back memories of Scout and Liberty, while reminding me how much Freedom has grown into her own role as my running partner.

Shared miles with Scout, Liberty, and Freedom—a part of our story I’ll always treasure.

She was part of our miles together with Scout and Liberty. Now she’s helping me keep that part of my life moving forward.

We start out teaching our dogs, establishing routines, and showing them the way. Somewhere along the trail, they become the ones encouraging us to get out the door.

My four-legged coaches have taught me quite a bit.

My view from the other end of the leash: Freedom on Sunday’s course.

This next race brings together things that have shaped my life: military service, animals, and running. I’m an Army veteran, a certified dog obedience instructor, and a former Guide Dog Foundation employee. Paws of War’s work supporting veterans, first responders, and rescue animals through its service-dog programs is a mission I wholeheartedly believe in.

That’s why I’m adding a fundraising goal to my race preparation.

I’m aiming to raise $500 by October 24, and I’ve started with a $10 donation of my own.

If you can give $10, $15, or another amount that works for you, I would be grateful. There’s no pressure to decide today. Please consider it between now and race day.

Support my fundraiser and click below:

If donating isn’t possible, sharing the link is another way to help.

Years ago, a 26.2-mile route led us back to the shelter where our story began. This time, a race bearing Freedom’s name is giving me another reason to lace up and support a cause close to my heart.

To finish up, I do want to add all the running started with my first true running partner Skyler......

Scout and Liberty will always be part of that story.

And Freedom and I still have miles to share.

Until next time have a happy and healthy tail wagging day,

One foot, one paw at a time,

Pamela & Freedom

Doggone Healthy Choices