The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Partners with PAWS Atlanta for “Trails for Tails” 5K Run/Walk July 18, 2010

(Atlanta GA, 2010) The American Veterinary Medical Association plans to give back to the Atlanta community during their annual convention this year by hosting “Trails for Tails”, a 5K Run/Walk event on Sunday, August 1 at 7:30AM at Centennial Olympic Park. The fundraising/friend-raising event is partnering with PAWS Atlanta and local running groups to raise money for PAWS Atlanta, the city’s oldest and largest animal shelter.

The 5K event will start and finish at historic Centennial Olympic Park, adjacent to the Fountain of Rings, the globally recognized Olympic legacy. Prizes will be given to the top three male and female finishers in four age groups. Race registration includes a commemorative T-shirt, goodie bag, refreshments, awards and raffle prizes. Proceeds from the event will be split between the AVMA animal welfare programs and two local Atlanta animal shelters, including PAWS Atlanta.

According to Mike Cathey, Executive Director of AVMA, “The Convention to Community 5K Walk/Run allows the AVMA & AVMF to benefit the Atlanta community that is so graciously hosting us for the 2010 Convention. Along with PAWS Atlanta and all of our corporate partners, we’re excited to engage this community in extending the Convention experience beyond the walls of the Convention center and help animals in need.”

For more information or registration, http://www.active.com and use keyword "AVMA”. Please note that dogs may attend the event but are not allowed to run with their humans. The certified race is open to the public and welcomes seasoned runners as well as beginners and kids.

About PAWS Atlanta:
Founded in 1966, PAWS Atlanta – which stands for: Pets Are Worth Saving - is a 501c3 non-profit organization that relies solely on donations, grants and fundraisers to operate and does not receive any funding from any federal, state or local governments. It was previously known as The Dekalb Humane Society. PAWS Atlanta does not euthanize animals because of space constraints. For information on how to donate and/or volunteer visit www.pawsatlanta.org.

About the AVMA & Foundation:
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), established in 1863, is a not-for-profit association representing more than 80,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. The American Veterinary Medical Foundation is the charitable arm of the AVMA, working to benefit veterinary medicine, promote animal well being, support educational opportunities and enhance research.