The 16th Annual Mutt Strut is almost here, and whether you’re a seasoned Strutter or a first-timer, we’ve gathered the answers to your most frequently asked questions. Grab your running shoes (and your leash), and let’s get into it.
Mutt Strut is Hand in Paw’s dog-friendly 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run — our most joyful fundraiser of the year! It’s happening Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Homewood Central Park. Every registration supports Animal-Assisted Therapy programs serving hospitals, schools, senior communities, rehabilitation centers, and human service organizations across Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa at no charge to those partners.
Hand in Paw is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of our founding this year! For three decades, our volunteers and Therapy Teams have built meaningful connections across Alabama. This year's Mutt Strut theme is F•R•I•E•N•D•S, the iconic 1990's TV show. It's a nod to the friends — human and animal — who made our mission possible for the past three incredible decades. Think mid-90's nostalgia, big personalities, great outfits, and even greater community impact.
Mutt Strut is being held at Homewood Central Park, which is located at: 1632 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL 35209 (map)
The start and finish line are located at the intersection of Manhattan Street and Parkridge Drive. (You’ll see the balloons!)
Skip the race-day lines by picking up your T-shirt, doggie bandana, and race bib in advance. Packet Pickup will take place on Thursday, April 8, from 12-6 p.m., and Friday, April 9, from 12-5 p.m.
Picking up early means you can wear your gear on race day, travel lighter, and head straight to the fun without waiting in line.
Packet Pickup will be held at our offices, located at: 617 38th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222 (map)
Yes — you may also pick up a friend or family member’s packet during these times.
7:30-8:45 a.m. | Registration & Packet Pick-Up
9:00 a.m. | 5K Starts
9:45 a.m. | 1-Mile Fun Run Starts
10:30 a.m. | Awards Ceremony
7:30 a.m.-Noon | Vendor Village Open
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Official Mutt Strut After Party at Good Dog Hotel & Dog Park
Pro tip: Arrive early, grab coffee, browse vendors, and soak up the energy!
Yes, please do! Mutt Strut is proudly dog-friendly.
All dogs must:
If your pup prefers cheering from home, you’re still welcome to run, walk, or volunteer.
The course winds through the neighborhoods surrounding Homewood Central Park. This year, the 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run have different race routes. The course begins and ends at the same intersection, making it easy for spectators to cheer you on.
A lot! Mutt Strut is a full morning festival featuring:
Absolutely! This year’s theme celebrates Friends and the 1990s. Channel your inner sitcom star. Think denim, scrunchies, flannel, Central Perk vibes — or coordinate with your dog for a dynamic duo moment. Yes, there is a costume prize. Yes, people take it seriously.
Nope! We invite you to dress however you’re most comfortable.
Parking is available in two primary areas:
Carpooling is highly encouraged!
Funds raised at Mutt Strut directly support Hand in Paw’s Animal-Assisted Therapy programs, which provide thousands of visits each year to children with special needs, at-risk youth, hospital patients, seniors, and individuals with chronic or terminal illnesses.These services remain free of charge to the community because of events like this. You are not just signing up for a run. You are funding connection and healing.
Yes! You can register as an individual or create/join a team. Teams are a great way to:
Online registration is open until Friday, April 10. Day-of registration will be available on-site starting at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 11. That said, registering early saves time and helps guarantees your event shirt.
Tag @handinpawal on Facebook or Instagram and use the official hashtag, #MuttStrut2026, when posted on our channels. We love resharing your race-day moments!
We have several opportunities for businesses and organizations, including sponsorships and vendor booths. Vendor booths start at $100 and sponsorships start at $500. If your business wants visibility, goodwill, and several hundred dogs associating you with happiness, this is your event. Click here for more details and to book sponsorship and vendor opportunities.
Sign up, start fundraising, recruit your crew, and we’ll see you at the balloons. Click here to register online.
Register Now! Become a Vendor or Sponsor! Volunteer!
If you didn’t see your question answered above, we’re happy to help. Please contact Amanda Summers and our team will get you the information you need.
We can’t wait to see you — and your four-legged friends! — at the starting line.
