Getting fit and staying active is not only good advice for humans, but also beneficial for their canine companions. On May 1, local residents will get a chance to exercise with their dogs while supporting the Turlock Animal Shelter in the process.

Turlock’s Paws for a Cause 5k Dog Walk will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 1 at Sunnyview Dog Park, 500 S. Berkeley Ave. The event was organized by a group of California State University, Stanislaus students who were concerned with the decrease in donations to the Turlock Animal Shelter.

“They’re having a harder time finding homes for animals, and because they do euthanize there, we wanted to help an organization where our event would make a difference,” said Andrea Goodwin, event coordinator and Journal reporter.

“We also want to raise awareness for spaying and neutering pets and to adopt an animal from your local shelter,” she said.

The 5k course will be set up around Sunnyview Park and participants will be able to walk their dogs on a leash. The off-leash, fenced area of the park will also be open for use. Dogs in the 5k must be spayed or neutered, licensed and well-behaved.

Other activities at the event include a costume contest for dogs, agility training exhibition and various pet-related vendors.

To register for the walk, visit facebook.com/turlockspawsforacause to download the forms. Forms are also available at Turlock Animal Services, 801 S. Walnut Rd. There is an $8 fee for advance registration and $10 fee on the day of the event. All proceeds will benefit the Turlock Animal Shelter.

To contact Kristina Hacker, e-mail khacker@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2004.