In March of this year, a precious pup named Belle arrived at JHS in need of compassion and care. Belle had several painful masses growing on her body along with a significant hernia – she needed surgical intervention.

Enter – you!

After recovering, Belle’s smile lit up the hallways at JHS. She loved meeting new friends and all the treats that came with it. She was even a TV star on the local news!

One day, a family came to JHS looking for an easy-going dog who would fit in with their growing family. Belle was the perfect choice! She’s now a spoiled rotten princess in her new home.

Stories like Belle’s don’t happen by chance. They happen because of a community that shows up. And at this year’s Mutt March, that support was on full display from start to finish.

The day kicked off bright and early, with supporters and their pups arriving at UNF Hodges Stadium, ready to make an impact.

The energy carried through every moment, from the crowd-favorite Mutts Got Talent Showcase and the Pup Cup Eating Contest to the walk that brought everyone together with a shared purpose.

We celebrated our top fundraisers, who won amazing prizes, including one year of free pizza courtesy of Papa John’s!

Then, we took to the track! With help from Jackson de Ville of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Ozzie, the University of North Florida Osprey, participants walked a mile to show their support for homeless dogs and cats.

As the morning unfolded, guests explored the silent and chance auctions, all contributing to a cause that extends far beyond a single day. Dogs and their humans even enjoyed a peanut-butter painting activity, goodies from local vendors, and our signature Mutt March t-shirt.

Mutt March is more than a celebration of our community. Because of you, we are able to respond in critical moments, provide lifesaving medical care, and give vulnerable animals the chance to heal in loving foster homes.

It’s more than a one-day event. It is one of our most impactful fundraisers of the year, and this year, thanks to you, we raised more than $100,000 to support the animals in our care. Every dollar helps provide essential medical treatment, shelter, and enrichment for the thousands of pets who come through our doors.

We are incredibly grateful to our participants, donors, volunteers, staff, and board members who make this work possible. Your support creates real, tangible change for animals who need it most—and makes stories like Belle’s possible.