Salute to Paws 5K and Gratitude Festival Celebrates Dogs and Veterans

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend Sunday morning with your dog, Shelter to Soldier’s 2nd annual Salute to Paws 5K and Gratitude Festival for Dogs at Fox Point Farms in Encinitas checks every box.

The event raises funds for an organization doing genuinely important work – rescuing dogs from local shelters and training them to become service animals for post-9/11 veterans dealing with PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Military Sexual Trauma, and other service-related injuries.

It’s the kind of mission that reminds us why the bond between humans and dogs matters so much.

A Morning Built for Everyone

Registration opens at 8 AM, followed by an all-levels yoga flow at 8:30 AM if you want to stretch it out before the 5K kicks off at 9:30 AM.

Whether you bring your pup or come solo, the event welcomes all fitness levels and all family members – furry or not. After crossing the finish line, stick around for the Gratitude Festival for Dogs, where your four-legged friend can get some well-deserved love and attention.

Festival Vibes at Fox Point Farms

The setting alone makes this worth the drive to Encinitas. Fox Point Farms delivers those picturesque North County views we never get tired of, and the festival brings in live music from Dorian Tide, a Dog Spa by UNITE Doggy ‘Poo, Dog Bars by Furvor Pet, and plenty of pet-focused vendors.

If you’ve been thinking about adopting, Rescue Row, powered by Petco Love, will have adoptable dogs from The Animal Pad on site.

Throughout the day, you can grab tacos from the Huerta Taco Stand, wood-fired pizza, and house brews from Fox Point Farms. The Tito’s Garden offers a spot to relax between activities, and there are special experiences designed to help you celebrate the gratitude you feel for your dog.

VIP Treatment Available

For those wanting to elevate the experience, VIP tickets include complimentary specialty cocktails by Tito’s Handmade Vodka (21+), curated small bites, VIP gifts, and a custom pet picnic so you can savor quality time with your canine companion in style.

The event has solid backing from sponsors, including Petco Love, UNITE Hair, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Sycuan Casino Resort, and others who understand the value of what Shelter to Soldier accomplishes.

See you there!

The Salute to Paws 5K and Gratitude Festival is a cause that’s literally saving lives – two at a time.

📆 Sunday, November 9, Registration 8 AM, Yoga 8:30 AM, 5K 9:30 AM
🎟️ Register here ($50 adults, $25 children, $10 to add your dog)
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!