Attendees really got into the "spirit" of the event at last year's Monster Dash 5K-9.

By Meredeth Barzen

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween with your dog? Team Ortho is holding its annual “Monster Dash” 5K-9 on the spookiest day of the year—this Saturday, October 31.

The 5K-9 is the dog- and costume-friendly (for people and their pets!) portion of the Monster Dash race, which also includes a half-marathon, a 10-mile race and a regular 5K race—more than 7,000 runners are expected to participate this year. The 5K-9 will take place around Lake Harriet, and for your noble exercising efforts, you’ll receive a long-sleeved tech shirt and a collar or leash from the event’s sponsor, Stunt Puppy. Sidewalk Dog will be enjoying the festivities from Stunt Puppy’s tent. Plus, Fetch Delivers will be there to refuel your dog with treats and free one-pound sample bags of Go! Natural Grain Free Endurance dog food (great for active dogs) and to hand out coupons for any food in the the Now!/Go! lines, which can be redeemed at any retailer. ScoopyPoo will take care of anything your dog—ahem—leaves behind, Bits of Love Pet Massage will be providing mini-massages for your four-legged athletes and Pampered Pooch Playground will be on hand to simply love up all the pups.

Registration is $47 for one adult and one dog. If you haven’t pre-registered, registration for the 5K-9 opens at 8:45 a.m. Saturday morning, and the race starts at 10:35 at the Lake Harriet Bandshell.

There will be three water/trick-or-treat stops along the way, and remember: There’s no shame in walking if you get tired—you can always blame it on your dog.

Here’s some important info from the pooch lovin’ people behind the race:

1. Race Guide: The entire guide can now be downloaded at www.teamortho.us. In the guide, you will find detailed schedules and start locations for runners, information on parking, great suggestions for spectators and where you can pick up awards for running and costumes. We encourage you to read this document.

2. Packet Pickup is Friday, October 30 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Please note that packet pickup has moved from Marathon Sports to the Minneapolis Convention Center. Time for packet pickup: 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. in Ballroom B. Please bring a valid ID and your confirmation card. If you didn’t receive a confirmation card yet, never fear; come to packet pickup with your photo ID and we’ll get your bib number for you. Note: There will be no packet pickup on race day for the Half Marathon and the 10 Mile.

3. Registration is still open for the 5K-9: Online registration (highly encouraged!) shuts down Wednesday night. You can register at packet pickup on Friday or on race day; registration fee will be $47.

‘Tis the season of dog-friendly happenings, and Sidewalk Dog is here to provide the inside poop on your best bets. We think the following three events sound extra-awesome, so we’ll be at all three. Wanna join us?

Jump Into Spring hosted by Dogs and Drinks

When: May 30th, 7PM-10PM
Where: Now Boarding, the new state-of-the-art facility near MSP airport
What: Tours of the facility, complementary wine from Solo Vino and cheesecake from Muddy Paws Cheesecake, gourmet dog treats from Sojos, indoor off-leash play, ask-a-trainer/ask-a-groomer tables, photo booth and fab door prizes and gift bags.
For dogs under 15lbs (shy dogs, too!). All ages welcome; 21 to drink. Suggested donation: $10. More info.
This just in: Animal Planet is coming to film all the fun! Stay tuned to Sidewalk Dog for details.

Team Ortho’s 5K-9 sponsored by Stunt Puppy

When: May 31st, 8AM
Where: The Depot, Downtown Minneapolis
What: Run or walk with your furry friend! Then bring your pooch to the Stunt Puppy tent for some post-race TLC (treats, water, doggy massage and more). Participants receive Stunt Puppy 5K-9 tech shirt and leash. $47/person + one dog. More info.
Do some good: Run or walk the 5K-9 with Pet Haven’s team, The Fast and the Furballs! Have fun, exercise and raise awareness about homeless pets. More info.

Wine & Wag hosted by K9-Connection

When: June 4th, 6PM-9PM
Where: JJ’s Dry Dock Cafe, Downtown Minneapolis
What: A benefit for Homeward Bound Rescue. While you’re enjoying five courses of gourmet appetizers with wine pairings, your dog will also be served butler-style (grain-free Sojos courtesy of Bone Adventure)! Plus, live music, a raffle and goodie bags. $32/person. More info (including the mouthwatering menu).