Four Legs are Better than Two

Houston SPCA Run Club celebrates one year of fitness, friendship, four-legged fun

Lace up and join the Houston SPCA Run Club.

Photo courtesy of Houston SPCA

For the past year, runners, walkers, and dog lovers across Houston have gathered each week for a unique community tradition: the Houston SPCA Run Club. Now, the popular program is celebrating its first anniversary with a special evening dedicated to the people — and pets — who have made it such a success.

Taking place Thursday, June 4, at Memorial Park, the anniversary event welcomes participants of all fitness levels, from casual walkers to seasoned runners. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends, family members and, of course, their dogs for an evening that combines exercise, social connection, and support for animal welfare.

The celebration will begin with the club’s regular meet-up at 6:30 pm, at the Runner’s Stretching Deck in Memorial Park. Participants can choose between a one-mile walk or a two-mile run along the park’s scenic trails before heading to Memorial Trail Ice House for post-run festivities.

As part of the anniversary celebration, first-time participants will receive a free Houston SPCA dog bandana while supplies last. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet adoptable dogs looking for loving homes, giving runners the chance to support the organization’s lifesaving mission while enjoying an active evening outdoors.

The event will feature socializing, refreshments, and special perks for Run Club participants. Organizers say the anniversary celebration is designed to recognize the strong community that has grown around the weekly gathering over the past year.

Since launching, the Houston SPCA Run Club has become more than just a fitness activity. The weekly meet-ups have created a welcoming environment where animal lovers can connect, stay active, and support pet adoption efforts throughout the Houston area. Some Run Club members also help support Houston SPCA by raising funds through Chevron Marathon’s Run for a Reason.

Whether you're a longtime member or considering attending for the first time, the anniversary event offers the perfect opportunity to experience the camaraderie that has made the Houston SPCA Run Club a local favorite.

Participation is free, and all friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit the Houston SPCA website.

This Week's Hot Headlines

Houston comfort food favorite closes flagship and more popular stories

Photo courtesy of State Fare

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Editor's note: It's time to catch up on the top Houston news of the week, from a comfort food closure to a futuristic restaurant opening. Plus, a long-awaited, expansive park opens to the public. Read on for our most popular stories, then visit this guide to the best weekend events.

1. Texas comfort food restaurant closes at Memorial City after 10 years. One of Houston’s favorite destinations for Texas comfort food has closed its original location. State Fare Kitchen & Bar at Gateway Memorial City shuttered after service on Sunday, May 31.

2. Houston's 'Chinese takeout bar from the future' touches down in Webster. Houston’s Chinese takeout bar from the future is coming to the Bay Area. The sixth location of The Rice Box will open in Webster later this summer.

3. Houston pizza chef sets opening date for retro-inspired neighborhood joint. Houston pizza veteran Anthony Calleo has opened Galaxy Pizza in Spring, which will celebrate its grand opening Saturday, June 6.

4. $30 million, 100-acre new park rises in Houston's Sunnyside neighborhood. After years in development, the Hill at Sims park, greenway, and community space is finally open to the public. Hill at Sims will serve multiple functions to enhance accessibility to nature and walkable paths in South Houston.

A drone shot of the Hill at Sims The Hill at Sims is finally open to the public. Photo courtesy of Houston Parks Board

5. Bustling Houston suburb declared one of America's 10 newest boomtowns. What do you get when you combine a city's surge in population, housing growth, and economy? For Conroe, it adds up to being named America's No. 9 newest boomtown.