Pooches Invade Tower Grove for Fast and the Furriest

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In an attempt to lend a helping paw to their homeless brethren and sistren, hundreds of pooches brought their owners to Tower Grove Park over the weekend for the inaugural Fast and the Furriest 5K run. Hosted by the Animal Protective Association of Missouri, the event proved to be a major cash producer for the organization; which promotes animal welfare through adoption services, veterinary care, and lost and found programs.

Organizers say with nearly 500 runners showing up, what began as a one-time fundraiser will likely become a tradition. "This was an incredibly successful run; we were hoping for maybe 300 people." says APA talker Becky Krueger, "We definitely plan to make it an annual event." Before a crowd of befuddled onlookers, runners dodged bicyclists and land mines of the poo variety en route to a significant charitable payday for an organization that's deserving of a little help. Check out the photo gallery for race day images and visit the APA's site for a list of upcoming events...or just send 'em a fat check and stay on the couch.