Bend Dog Runner Organizes Fundraising Ultra to Support Local Shelter

BEND, Ore. -- A dog runner in Bend, who volunteers weekly at Street Dog Hero, plans to run 50 to 70 miles with shelter dogs on October 4 to raise funds for the rescue organization. Florio, the owner of a business called irunyourdog, creates running opportunities for dogs, typically offering sessions of 30 minutes to an hour, totaling up to 50 miles each week.

Florio moved to Bend in January, shortly before starting his business. He explained, "What I do is not, you know, it's not water, it's not gas, it's not food. You don't need it. It's definitely a luxury for the dog to get out and move."

He has built a strong client base and plans to expand, hoping to add more employees. Currently, he manages a schedule with three part-time runners, all of whom also have full-time jobs. One of his clients, Kelsey Slocum, noted that her dog's behavior has improved due to Florio's service, saying, "He's less restless. He's more just calm and less destructive behaviors come out. He's able to self-regulate a lot more."

According to Manny Ramos, adoption manager at Street Dog Hero, Florio has been a volunteer since January and has become a valued member of the team. "He's just a real fun guy. And now we all consider him a close friend and he is just really looking out for rescue and shelter dogs," Ramos commented.

Florio dedicates every Friday to the shelter, blocking time from his schedule to help. He expressed a desire to contribute more significantly than just volunteering, stating he wished he could provide a large donation to directly assist the shelter.

The fundraising event, dubbed The Found Charity Ultra, will begin at 7 a.m. on October 4, with Florio running laps around the Street Dog Hero property until 4 p.m. Due to expected warmer weather, the dogs will only participate until noon. The event will also feature $1 beer and $5 hot plates, live music, and opportunities for pet adoptions. For those unable to attend, pledges or donations to the fundraiser are welcome. Street Dog Hero is located at 910 SE Wilson Avenue in Bend.