On your bark

Does having four legs, instead of the standard-issue two, better prepare you to participate in a five-kilometer run/fitness walk? The jury is still out, but the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) invites you to investigate at the 13th annual Doggy Dash and Pet Fest. Participants in the five-kilometer or two-kilometer Doggy Dash are invited to bring along a leashed friend; those sans canine are also welcome. New to the Pet Fest this year, which follows the run, are pug races, a pet masseuse, a pet psychic and Beer for Dogs (think beef-flavored, non-carbonated O’Doul’s). The Doggy Dash begins on Saturday at 8 a.m. in William Land Park. Registration can be done at the event or online at www.sspca.org for $30. Admission to the Pet Fest is free, and dog daycare is provided for those dogs who wish not to embarrass their owners by dragging their tired, bipedal bodies behind them in the run. For more information, contact the SPCA at (916) 383-PETS, ext. 9102.