Ghost 5K Run and Poker Walk

Oct. 21, 2017

Compete alongside your dog in the fourth annual ghost 5K run, benefiting the Robinson Hearts and Minds Foundation. There will be a human-only 5K competitive run followed by a 5K chip-timed Doggie Run for you and your pet. The first dogs to finish will win an award. 9 a.m., Fourth Avenue and 12th Street West, Old Main Street, Bradenton

Dog A Ween

Oct. 28, 2017

Even if you don’t have a dog it’s worth turning out for this annual event to see the parade of pups in cute and creative costumes. This year they’ll parade through the Saturday Farmers’ Market, ending up at Paul Thorpe Park, where judges will award cash prizes to the best costumes. Info: Destination Downtown Sarasota Facebook page or call Ron Soto, (941) 953-3788.

Canine Christmas Festival

Nov. 18, 2017

Bring your pets to Bishop Animal Shelter’s holiday event with dog vendors, arts and crafts for your pets, food trucks, an agility course and a pet fashion show contest. There will also be hundreds of adoptable dogs from local shelters. 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., Bishop Animal Shelter SPCA, 5718 21st Ave. W., Bradenton

Jingle Paws Jubilee

Dec. 3, 2017

Join other dog lovers for the sixth annual holiday event full of dog vendors, food vendors, agility demonstrations, face painting, music, raffles, adoptable dogs and cats and more. There will also be a holiday costume parade and contest for you to enter your dog. Noon-5 p.m., Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Southeastern Guide Dogs Walkathon

April 21, 2018

Participants will take part in a 3K walk in Payne Park surrounded by music, local vendors, Southeastern Guide Dogs gift shop and, of course—dogs. Payne Park, 2050 Adams Lane, Sarasota