Sign Up Today and Support Four-Legged Friends
(August 14, 2026) Hopkinton, MA — Registration is now open for Baypath Humane Society’s 17th Annual Paws & Claws 5k!
Registration for the 17th Annual Paws & Claws 5k presented by VCA Animal Hospitals is officially open! This year’s event takes place on Sunday, October 4th at the beautiful Hopkinton State Park. Baypath is thrilled that the community will be able to come together again for this major event. The Baypath Paws & Claws 5K is one of Baypath’s largest events each year and is responsible for helping the organization meet their mission of caring for over 1000 cats and dogs each year.
Baypath’s ‘Howl-een’ theme was such a hit last year that they are back with a fun new theme for 2026 – Autumn Tails! Think cozy plaids, animal prints, pet-inspired graphics, dog ears, cat tails and/or your favorite fall colors. Up the cuteness factor by coordinating with your canine companion! Our expanded Vendor Village marketplace also returns this October. Featuring a mix of pet, family and runner-focused vendors, you’ll have plenty to explore before and after the race.
The event proceeds will support Baypath Humane Society’s mission to provide shelter, care, humane treatment, and loving homes for stray or unwanted companion animals. Baypath supporters, volunteers, and attendees come together once a year for a night of fun to raise critical funds to support the general operations of our shelter. Those funds are necessary to help deliver top-notch adoption services, medical and behavioral care, and community education.
Want to go the extra mile for pets in need? Join Baypath’s Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Program!
It’s easy to get started – simply select your fundraising goal during registration. Then create a personalized fundraising page and rally your friends, family and colleagues. Whether you raise $25, $250 or $2,500, every dollar helps provide brighter futures for vulnerable cats and dogs. And this year, your support means more than ever as we look forward to the fall opening of our new modern shelter.
Event Details & Schedule*
9:00AM Registration and Bib Pick Up Opens (including Same Day Registration)
9:00AM Paws & Claws Vendor Village Opens (Sponsors & Local Businesses)
10:30AM 5K Run/Walk Starts
11:30AM (Approximately) Awards and Thank You’s
Register here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/17thannualpawsclaws5k/register/form/classification
Looking for another way to get involved? Our sponsors are a huge part of the event’s success and our ability to do more for the animals we serve. Please consider partnering with us and affirming your commitment to animal welfare in our community and beyond.
For more information and to sponsor, please visit: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/17thannualpawsclaws5k/sponsors/
About Baypath Humane Society
Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton provides shelter, care, humane treatment, and loving homes for stray or unwanted companion animals. They serve the community by fostering relationships, educating, and making a positive impact on pet overpopulation. Visit the shelter at 500 Legacy Farms North in Hopkinton, MA or join the Baypath community at www.instagram.com/facebook or www.facebook.com/baypathhumane or www.instagram.com/baypathhumane/.
### News Contact: Elizabeth Jefferis: ejefferis@baypathhumane.org