“Zoomies for a Cause” brings Southern California together to run, walk and raise critical funds for local animal rescues
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Rescue Train will bring its annual Race for the Rescues back to the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Saturday, October 10, 2026, uniting animal lovers, rescue organizations and the community for a morning dedicated to helping animals in need.
Now in its 21st year, Race for the Rescues has raised more than $7 million to support lifesaving animal welfare programs throughout Southern California, including rescue and adoption efforts, veterinary care, spay and neuter services, shelter intervention and other critical resources that help animals and the people who care for them.
This year’s theme, “Zoomies for a Cause,” celebrates the joy animals bring to our lives while giving the community a meaningful way to give back. Participants can run, walk or support from home, with funds raised benefiting participating nonprofit rescue and animal welfare organizations.
With shelters and rescue groups continuing to face overcrowding and growing demand for resources, Race for the Rescues gives local organizations an opportunity to raise funds, build awareness and connect directly with the community.
Event Details
WHO: Families, animal lovers, runners, walkers, rescue advocates and supporters of all ages
WHAT: The 21st Annual Race for the Rescues featuring:
● 5K Run/Walk
● 1K Dog Walk
● Virtual “Couch Potato” Race for supporters participating from home
● Rockin’ Adoption Show featuring dogs from Kern County Animal Control
● Vendor expo
● Family-friendly activities and entertainment
● Fundraising opportunities benefiting participating rescue organizations
WHEN: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Registration opens at 7:00 a.m. | Race begins at 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: The Rose Bowl, Area H
1001 Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena, CA 91103
21 Years of Lifesaving Impact
“For 21 years, Race for the Rescues has shown what can happen when a community comes together for animals in need,” says Lisa Young, Executive Director of The Rescue Train. “Every person who runs, walks, donates, volunteers or simply helps spread the word plays a role in giving local rescue organizations the resources and visibility they need to continue their lifesaving work.”
2026 Highlights
● Celebrate 21 years of Race for the Rescues
● Take part in the 5K Run/Walk or 1K Dog Walk
● Participate from anywhere through the virtual Couch Potato Race
● Meet local rescue and animal welfare organizations
● Rockin’ Adoption Show featuring Kern County Animal Care shelter dogs looking for their forever homes
● Explore the vendor expo featuring pet-focused brands and organizations
● Fundraise directly for participating nonprofit partners
● Awards and recognition for top fundraisers and racers
● Family-friendly entertainment, activities and more
● Show off your best “Zoomies for a Cause” and help make a difference for animals in need
2026 Benefiting Partners
A Bridge To Home Rescue, Angel City Pit Bulls, Animal World Foundation, Better Together Forever, Cage to Couch, Feed The Streets, FurEver Companions Cat Rescue, German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County, Hollywood Rescue Grooming, Kitten Rescue, K9 Youth Alliance, Legacy of Love 805, Pup Culture Rescue, Queen’s Best Stumpy Dog Rescue, Sante D’Or, Southern California Labrador Retriever Rescue, START Rescue, The Cat Posse, The Rescue Train and 5 Circle Ranch.
2026 Sponsors
The Rescue Train, Tito’s, Whisker, Pet Care Foundation, Fera Pets,, The Atone Group, Farm Fresh Real Grass, Jax & Bones, NoHo Orthodontics Studio, Pawsitive MGMT, Squeeze Massage, Smooth Movers, and Hollywood Grooming.
MEDIA SPONSORS: KTLA 5, Run With Us Pasadena
Register, Fundraise or Donate
Whether you run it, walk it or cheer from the couch, there are plenty of ways to be part of Race for the Rescues and help animals in need.
Register, donate or learn more at racefortherescues.org and follow @racefortherescues on social media for event updates.
About The Rescue Train
Founded in Los Angeles in 2005, The Rescue Train is a no-kill animal welfare organization dedicated to reducing animal suffering and helping pets stay out of overcrowded shelters. Its programs include a mobile spay and neuter clinic, Rescue & Rehome, the Keep Your Pet Project shelter intervention program, a pet food pantry and community partnerships that provide critical resources to animals and the people who love them.
For more than two decades, The Rescue Train has worked alongside rescue organizations, volunteers, donors and community partners to create lasting change for animals throughout Southern California.
