Long-time runner Michael recently lost his first pup due to cancer and is fundraising for PAWS NY in honor of him! Having completed nine full marathons–five of which were the major ones–Michael will also be competing in the Tokyo Marathon next year! 

Learn more about Michael in his Q&A below! 

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

This will be my 9th full marathon. I ran NYC in 2017 and loved it!

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I recently secured a spot in the NYC Marathon and wanted to run for a cause that was dear to my heart. I recently lost my first pup/best friend due to cancer and want to run in his honor.

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I currently have two pups: a 7-year-old Husky and a 1-year-old Husky/Collie mix.

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

I started to run long distances in 2016 and love running anywhere along a river to be honest: Thames, Hudson River, Charles River in Boston.

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

Perfect my pizza recipe.

Share2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

I’ve run 5 of the 6 major marathons and will run Tokyo in March of 2023. And I play a couple musical instruments! 

Thanks so much for your support, Michael! We can’t wait to celebrate this accomplishment with you in November! Click here to support Michael and other members of Team PAWS NY.

The post Runner Spotlight: Michael appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

After completing the 2015 TCS NYC Marathon, Jacob fell in love with running and is excited to run the NYC Marathon again this year, in support of PAWS NY. He understands the importance of being able to help an organization by doing something he loves and in 2015, Jacob raised more than $2,000 Trans Lifeline. We’re thrilled that he is running on behalf of PAWS NY this year!

Learn more about Jacob in his Q&A below.

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

I ran the TCS NYC Marathon in 2015 and loved it, even though my hip went out during the last 3 miles of the race! I missed having my name listed in The New York Times by 30 seconds. Despite that, I was blown away by the support from the crowds throughout the race. There is really nothing like it in terms of running. I generally run half marathons and 10Ks, but the TCS NYC Marathon is really outstanding.

For that race I raised $2,000 for Trans Lifeline, which offers crisis counseling to transgender and people by trans people. At that time, I fell in love with running long distances and raising money for organizations supporting causes I value at the same time. This year my goal is to run the NYC Marathon in under 5 hours and make it into The New York Times this year! And of course raise at least $3,000 for PAWS NY. 

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I was looking for an organization to run for this fall, and came across PAWS NY under the list on the NYRR website. After reading up on PAWS NY’s mission to support the human-animal bond, I knew it was the right organization to run with. Having gone through the COVID-19 pandemic with my cats, I know my mental health would have really suffered without them. I strongly believe that pets are integral parts of families,and when you adopt a furry family member it is for the entirety of that little being’s life (and after). Choosing to enter into that bond opens you both up for transformation and growth, as you let this little semi-wild creature into your home. What you create together changes you both (as any relationship does). It would be heartbreaking to have to separate because one part of that relationship can no longer physically care for the other. I love that PAWS NY understands that and works to enable the continuance of those relationships.

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I do! I have two adorable brown and gray tabby cats: Hermy (12) and Tonx (6). I grew up with almost every kind of pet that lives mainly in a cage: guinea pigs, hamsters, fish, parakeet, rats. I always wanted a cat or dog, but my parents were pretty opposed to larger animals, so at 11 years old I went to our local public library and made a research presentation about the benefits of dog companionship, with a list of dog breeds that would be compatible with our family. My parents still talk about this! It seemed to convince them because we got a sheltie named Travis when I was 13. Looking back, that probably should have been a sign that I would grow up to become a professor.

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

I have been running for nine years. My favorite place to run in the city is Prospect Park. Some of my favorite races are the (now defunct) Disneyland Half Marathon and the Pride Run.

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

I am a Gender and Queer Studies Professor, with subfields in Transgender Studies and Asian American Studies, so teaching and writing takes up most of my time during the school year. Whatever little other time I have (that is not loving on Hermy and Tonx) is generally spent playing board games, hiking, and watching movies or the performing arts.

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

1. I am an identical twin. 
2. I am a published author, and am completing my first monograph this fall. 
3. As a self-identified cat guy, I love both cats and dogs. 

Thanks so much for your support, Jacob! We’re excited to see you run this November! Click here to support Jacob and other members of Team PAWS NY.

The post Runner Spotlight: Jacob appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

As a veterinary student, Gia knows the importance of the human-animal bond and wanted to support PAWS NY by running the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon on November 6! Although Gia is a new runner, she’s found a true connection with running and wants to be a part of future marathons, and we’re happy to support and encourage her along the way! 

Read more about Gia in her Q+A below!

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

My New Year’s Resolution this year was to get into running. I started with two miles, then four, and before I knew it, I had completely fallen in love with running! Almost everyone I began running with would talk about how incredible of an event the NYC Marathon was and I knew it was something I wanted to push myself to do. I’ve only ever ran half marathons and I am so excited for this next challenge. 

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

My love for animals began at a young age and I have been a constant in my life. As a 2nd year veterinary student, I’ve seen first hand what the animal-to-human bond can bring to the lives of others. The work done by PAWS NY is something very unique; the care of the animals gives the residents of NYC the peace of mind in knowing their four-legged friends are going to be cared for, loved, healthy, and happy. 

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I do! I have a husky/samoyed mix named Acuña. I have always grown up with large breed dogs but Acuña is the first dog I’ve cared for myself. He is 100% my best friend and running buddy. 

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

I began running last January. My absolute favorite place to run is Central Park; the views never get old and I love listening to the mix of running, biking, jazz music, conversations, etc. I also enjoy running down the West Side Highway!  

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

Most of my weekends are spent exploring the restaurants in NYC, hanging out in Central Park, and going to the many comedy shows NYC has to offer. 

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

1. I grew up snowboarding and it is my absolute favorite thing to do.
2. In 2024, I will graduate as a veterinarian and hope to score a residency in orthopedic / soft tissue surgery.
3. Although I juuuust began running, I think it would be incredible to one day run all of the six major marathons (NYC, Berlin, London, Chicago, Tokyo, and Boston).

Gia, thanks so much for your support and your dedication to helping animals in so many ways! Click here to support Gia and other members of Team PAWS NY.

The post Runner Spotlight: Gia appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Introducing Nicole, another one of the amazing individuals running the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon on our behalf on November 6! After supporting PAWS NY as a volunteer and realizing the impact it has on the NYC community, Nicole wanted to expand her support a bit more, so she is fundraising on our behalf and running the Marathon! 

We are excited to cheer her on and thank you, Nicole, for your dedication and support! 

Read more about Nicole in her Q+A below!

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

Because I will be turning 40 in December and wanted to have a monumental goal to achieve before that. I have never run before!

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I was a volunteer. I saw the impact it had on the two people I volunteered with and wanted to dedicate my run to the cause.

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

Yes! His name is Marty. He is a rescue Pittie!

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

Just started – West Side Highway.

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

Hang with my dog, travel, try new restaurants and explore the best city in the world, NYC!

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

1. I love pandas.
2. I’m learning French.
3. I skydived with the Army Golden Knights in 2011.

Is there anything else you want to share with the PAWS community? 

New York is my dream city and I am completely overjoyed that I have this opportunity to run the most famous marathon in the world in my dream city!

The post Runner Spotlight: Nicole appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

It has been on my race bucket list ever since I began running. It’s still so surreal to me that I will be doing it this year! 

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I find the work that PAWS NY does is so valuable and important. I volunteer at a local shelter in my community and caring for animals has always been a passion of mine. 

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

Oh yes, I have always had dogs for as long as I can remember. Currently I have 2 sweet dogs (one of whom we lovingly refer to as our foster fail).

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

My first half marathon was in 2007 and I have been running ever since. My speed and distances have fluctuated through age/motherhood, but never my love of the sport! My husband is my #1 running buddy and we run in the mornings together after dropping the kids off at school. We’ve done several races together and I am so excited he will be running NYC with me! 

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

I have a little Etsy shop with gifts for runners and really enjoy crafting. I am also a die hard Green Bay Packers fan and LOVE watching football. 

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

1. I have been a contestant on The Price is Right.
2. Prior to kids, I was training to be an Opera singer.
3. The Athens Marathon is the next race on my bucket list!  

What are your goals for this race? How can PAWS support you?

My goal is to be trained, run a healthy and enjoyable race, and finish in under 5 hours.

Is there anything else you want to share? Now’s the time!

My husband Peter and I are doing the race together and started a TikTok page to track our progress (and help us earn donations)! We are on TikTok and Instagram under @RunMomRunDad.

The post Runner Spotlight: Bri appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Learn more about Devery in her Q&A below, and continue to support her throughout her journey!

Why did you decide to run the TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

I have done a few half marathons and really wanted to challenge myself to complete a full! I am originally from Connecticut and grew up going into the city often with my dad. The grit and vibrancy of New York makes it the perfect location for my first marathon! 

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I work in the pet industry and animal welfare has always been a passion of mine. When looking to join a charity for the NYC Marathon, I was immediately drawn to the animal welfare category, especially to PAWS NY.

I have volunteered a few times for a local Colorado organization that is similar, as they feed Colorado pets, allowing families to increase their ability to care for pets with the goal of keeping them out of shelters and with their families. I feel that everyone should be able to experience the love and loyalty from dogs, no matter their financial situation. 

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I have a heeler/border collie mix named Finley that I rescued from the Four Corners area. Finley and her siblings were brought to the Denver area for adoption from a Native American reservation. She is the best camping and hiking buddy! 

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

My favorite place to run is Wash Park, in Denver. It offers a mix of paved and dirt trails and is filled with beautiful gardens, trees, and lakes. 

What do you do in your free time (besides run)?

I love most of the outdoor activities that Colorado offers! On the weekends, you could usually find me hiking a mountain or skiing the slopes. 

What are your goals for this race? How can PAWS support you?

I’m honestly just hoping to finish! Here’s hoping that training in altitude will help my case

Thanks so much for your support, Devery! We can’t wait to watch you crush your first Marathon in November! Click here to support Devery and other members of Team PAWS NY.

The post Runner Spotlight: Devery appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Shay running a previous race.

PAWS NY is excited to once again have a team running in the TCS New York City Marathon this year—and we want to introduce you to our fabulous runners. First up is Shay from Brooklyn, who is excited to fundraise and run on behalf of PAWS NY in the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon. 

While she has been running her entire life, this will be Shay’s first full marathon. Learn more about Shay in her Q&A below and help us cheer her on this November 6!

Why did you decide to run the 2022 TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

This will be my first marathon and why not start big with NYC! I have ran two half marathons previously in the past year. 

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

PAWS is a great organization that keeps pets in the homes of a vulnerable community of people. I know how much my pets have helped me through things in the past, which is why PAWS is such an incredible concept.

Shay and her dog

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I grew up with pets and realize how much they add to your life. I have a beautiful 2-year-old black lab/shepherd mix that I rescued from the Humane Society, who is my favorite stress reliever. 

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

I have been running my entire life. My favorite place to run is either San Diego in Mission Beach or my grandparents house in Westerly, Rhode Island.

What do you do in your free time (besides running)?

I am also a yoga instructor and have an obsession of traveling and seeing new places!

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

I traveled Europe for 24 days by myself and I love the game cribbage.

Thanks so much for your support, Shay! We can’t wait to watch you crush your first Marathon in November! Click here to support Shay and other members of Team PAWS NY.

The post Runner Spotlight: Shay appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Whether you want to laugh with your dog, buy some pet products, or help animals in need, we have several pet-friendly events to share with you all today! 

Learn more about these events below!

Must Love Dogs & Comedy
Boris & Horton in Manhattan
Friday, August 5, 7-9pm
Suggested Donation: $20

Would you like to join a night of laughing and sniffing? If so, check out dog-friendly cafe Boris & Horton for some fantastic storytelling and stand-up comedy. You and your pup are both invited, so get ready to laugh all night long!

Artists Open House: Dog Days of Summer 
Atelier Canal in Brooklyn
Saturday, August 6, 1-5pm
Free!

Meet and mingle with artists whose work is featured at the Atelier Canal’s pop-up shop in Brooklyn! All artwork at this open house will specifically celebrate the love we have for our pets—plus wine, beer, and fizzy drinks! 

Meet & Eat National Dog Day with Animal Haven!
Moxy East Village in Manhattan
Friday, August 26, 4-6pm
Free!

Celebrate National Dog Day by helping Animal Haven find homes for some friendly pups. Moxy East Village hosts this adoption event, which will also feature snacks like hot dogs! 

If you want more pet-friendly events, check out our friends @dogspotted! Follow them on Instagram or visit their new events website for pet events year-round! 

The post Looking for Pet-Friendly Events in NYC? appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Learn more about Dalilah and her pup Couture below–and welcome her to the PAWS team for the next few weeks!

Tell us a bit about your life outside of PAWS NY. Where are you in school and what are some of your hobbies and interests?

I’m currently a college student at Buffalo State College, who is trying to figure out what my hobbies and interests are! Fortunately PAWS has become one of my hobbies. Working with animals, and even helping animals in general, really interests me. Some other hobbies that I’m interested in are going out for movies or just going out for dinner. 

Do you have any pets? Tell us about them!

While in Buffalo, NY, I had the opportunity to adopt my furry friend, who is more like my  daughter! Her name is Couture, also known as Quarter, Guitar, and Pookie. She is a one-year-old Pitbull who enjoys her puppy cups and is very sweet. Couture also looks like an Oreo because of all the spots she has. She also gets confused with the Target mascot dog and a Dalmatian.

Why were you interested in getting involved with PAWS NY?

PAWS NY caught my eye because I just recently adopted my furry friend. Lately, I’ve been more interested in animals and how they are treated. PAWS NY was a great place to start off my journey about working with animals, and being able to help others makes it even better in the process. 

What are your goals? What would you like to do in the next 3, 5, 10 years?

My goal in 3 years is to finally finish college, if not continue on that journey. In 5 years, I should be starting my career and looking for a job that interests me. In 10 years, I’d like to be starting my family, and my career should be set. Or if I’m still looking into that, I just want to make sure I’m set in life and trying new things.

What’s your favorite part about living in NYC?

My favorite part about living in NYC is the transportation and how you can get everywhere! While living in Buffalo for some time, transportation was very difficult for me because you need a car to travel anywhere. But in the city, you have plenty of options such as the bus or subway to get wherever you need to go! 

Welcome to the PAWS team Dalilah – we’re excited for your summer with us!

The post Staff Shoutout: Dalilah Gonzalez appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.