Pug fever

Pugs should officially be sanctioned Sacramento’s dog. They are everywhere in this city. Seriously though, who can resist those cute, wrinkly, smooshed faces? Case in point: For the last three years, the Sacramento SPCA’s annual Doggy Dash and Bark at the Park has featured pug races for the city’s most beloved vertically challenged pooches. This year, during the 17th annual event, they’re adding to the pug madness with the first “Running of the Pugs.” Instead of the Pamplona trampling-people-to-death version, these little dogs will trample people with wrinkly love. The festivities on Saturday, June 5, also will include some non-pug-dominated activities: a 5K run/walk, a pup show, agility dog demonstrations and more. But we all know you’ll go for the pugs.

Doggy Dash will begin at 8:15 a.m. Saturday, June 5. Registration is $30 for individuals, $35 for teams. Bark at the Park Festival will follow the Doggy Dash. William Land Park, 4000 S. Land Park Drive; http://sspca.org.