Step Up for Shelter Pets – join the Pet Walk

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control will host its Steps for Shelter Pets Walk at Pearl Street Park (1200 Baxter St, Charlotte, NC 28202). 

This heartwarming community event invites animal lovers of all ages to walk in honor of the 10,600 animals that have entered the shelter this year.  Each lap walked represents one of those animals, and participants are encouraged to raise $5 per lap to help reach the event’s ambitious $53,000 fundraising goal.

“This walk is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a movement,” said Melissa Knicely, longtime Animal Care & Control spokesperson. “Every step we take helps fund critical programs like our free and low-cost spay/neuter services, monthly rabies clinics, enrichment programs, and our life-saving kitten care initiative. These programs are entirely supported by donations and grants, so every dollar truly counts.”  She adds “there will be 20 vendors, Food Trucks and Face Painting so come on out for a good cause.”

The funds raised will directly support a wide range of shelter programming, including:

• Spay/neuter and vaccination clinics
• Pet enrichment supplies (like toys, treats, and bedding)
• Kitten foster care and bottle-feeding programs
• Community outreach and education

“We’re walking for every tail wag, every purr, and every second chance,” added Davier Lopez-Rodriguez, Animal Care & Control’s Community Engagement Coordinator shared with us. He went on to add: “this is a chance for the community to come together and show these animals they’re not forgotten.”

How You Can Help Beyond the Walk

In addition to participating in the walk, there are other impactful ways to support Charlotte’s shelter pets:

• Adopt: Give a homeless pet a forever home. Adoption events are held regularly, including monthly meet-and-greets at Piedmont Social House.
• Staycations: Take a dog home for a weekend or short-term break. It gives the pet a break from the shelter and helps staff learn more about their personality.
• Foster: Especially needed for kittens and special-needs animals.
• Donate or Sponsor a Walker: Even if you can’t attend, you can support someone who is walking or donate directly to the cause.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 24, 2025, and join the community at Pearl Street Park to walk for a cause that truly matters. Whether you walk one lap or twenty, your steps will make a difference.

For more information, to register, or to donate, visit the official event page at:  animals.cmpd.org.