Insight

Spring 2008

The Fast and the Furriest

Each April, the Professional Veterinary Medical students at Colorado State University put on a race that draws all kinds of animals – from two-legged to four-legged to no-legged. While all done in good fun, the Fast and the Furriest Fun Run also has a serious side – to raise money for two good causes. And, for many students, it’s a first opportunity to learn about philanthropic giving and creating a legacy.

The Fast and the Furriest is a 5K/1K run-walk fundraiser to benefit the Companion Care Fund and the PVM class’ scholarship endowment. The event takes place at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital. This year’s race is on Saturday, April 19.

The Companion Care Fund offers financial assistance to clients of the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital who have an animal in need of emergency or immediate life-saving care. The fund is entirely need-based and is reserved solely for members of the community. Without the financial assistance provided by the fund, many clients would be faced with the difficult choice of declining care for their animal or relinquishing ownership. The Companion Care Fund provides hope for both owners and their animals in need.

Class scholarships are established by each graduating class of the Professional Veterinary Medical Program. Students work over time to fully endow their class scholarship so that funds can be awarded to a deserving veterinary student each year.

Students work many hours to coordinate the event which not only includes the race but, in the past, has featured a dog demonstration by Search and Rescue Dogs of Colorado, hot air balloon rides, music, food, race give-aways, awards for a variety of race categories (including furriest pet finisher), canine entertainment, raffles and more.