Annual Event

The Fast and the Furriest - 5k Run

A fun and furry-friendly 5K event supporting the incredible work of the Gulf Coast Humane Society!

Gulf Coast Humane Society Annual Event: Fast and the Furriest 5k Run

The Fast and the Furriest

Join us for the Fast & The Furriest 2025. This year’s race will be held at Bell Tower Shops in Fort Myers and will feature two exciting race options, plus plenty of wagging tails and good vibes.

ALL for a Great Cause

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Gulf Coast Humane Society, supporting our mission to care for and rehome thousands of animals every year. Your steps make a difference!

Race Options

Whether you’re running fast or just here for the pizza, The Fast & The Furriest is a great way to give back and have fun. Let’s race, eat, and wag our tails for a good cause!

5k Run/Walk

Enjoy our traditional, chip-timed 5K course through and around the Bell Tower. Whether you’re running for the podium or walking with your pup, this event is open to all paces!

Pizza Run (NEW)

Think you’ve got what it takes? Participants in this challenge will:

    • Eat 1 small slice of pizza
    • Run ¼ mile
    • Repeat 4 times

That’s right! 4 slices + 1 Mile = Lots of Laughs!

The Pizza Run is hosted in partnership with Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, located in Bell Tower.

Bring Your Dog!

Don’t forget the pups! This race is dog-friendly, and we encourage you to bring your leashed, well-behaved pets to join in on the fun. Water bowls and treats will be available, and we’ll have photo ops to capture you and your furry friend on the run!

The Fast and the Furriest Logo

2025 Event Details

Where: The Bell Tower Shops

  • 13499 S Cleveland Avenue Fort Myers, FL 33907
  • When: Sat November 15, 2025

Race Details

  • Super Cute T-shirt
  • Finisher Medal with/Commemorative Race Leash
  • Post-race party and dog-friendly activities
  • Awards for top finishers and best-dressed pets!

Early Pickup
Fleet Feet Fort Myers, Bell Tower
Friday, November 14
4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Race Day Pickup
7:00 AM – 7:45 AM

Stick around after the race for a pizza-fueled celebration at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria at Bell Tower!

Pizza Specials for All Participants
Bar Opens Early!! Toast your finish
Bring your friends, your dog, and your appetite — this is a post-race party you don’t want to miss!

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants (both two- and four-legged!), we kindly ask that you observe the following:

No Retractable Leashes: For everyone’s safety, only standard (non-retractable) leashes are permitted. Leashes should be no longer than 6 feet.
One Dog Per Runner/Walker: To ensure better control and safety, we ask that each participant bring only one dog.
Dogs Must Be Well-Behaved and Socialized: All dogs should be comfortable around crowds, other dogs, and loud noises.
Dogs Must Be Current on Vaccinations: Please ensure your pet is up to date on rabies and core vaccines.
No Aggressive Dogs: For the safety of others, dogs showing aggressive behavior will be asked to leave the event.
Clean-Up is a Must: Please come prepared to pick up after your, poop bags will be available on-site.
Hydration Stations: Water will be available for both pets and people throughout the course.

Event Staff Reserves the Right to Remove Any Participant (Human or Canine): If safety becomes a concern, we may ask a participant to step away from the event area.

Health for Pets, Hope for the Future

Support our Capital Campaign

Your donations will help us build the new Gulf Coast Humane Society Veterinary Clinic!

Gulf Coast Humane Society Paws for Wellness Campaign Logo