Love on the Run 5K

A smiling woman kneels beside a golden retriever wearing a red bandana in front of the starting line.

Two young participants jogging together with a small dog on a leash.

Participant and dog running through campus with the UC Davis water tower in the background..

Participants walk on a road, some wearing race numbers, with a dog in a red bandana.

Runners in colorful shirts and dogs crossing the finish line.

A girl and a woman run towards a "FINISH" archway with spectators watching.

Two runners pose with their dog at the finish line.

Thank you to all our attendees for another great year of Love on the Run!

With 330 participants and more than 100 dogs, the event was a tremendous success.

Top Overall Finishers

Congratulations to our top overall runners:
Brandon Rivas-Gramajo – 18:56
Mickey Bartko – 19:30
Megan Casey – 19:47

Top Canine Finishers

A big round of applause for our fastest four-legged finishers and their partners:
Paprika (with Reid Dale) – 20:12
Cali (with Sarah Fowler) – 26:34
Rubiks (with Nikki Sanchez) – 29:02

View more photos from this year's event

We would like to extend a special thanks to our generous sponsors: University Credit Union, Fleet Feet, Capital Road Race Management and Pet Food Express. Your support plays a vital role in making this event possible.

Thank you to everyone who ran, walked, volunteered and cheered in support of our K-9s. Your participation made this event a meaningful celebration of community partnership and public safety.

See you next year!

Get 5K Run Details

Registration

Meet our K-9s!

About the CORE Officer Program

The Love on the Run 5K is your opportunity to help sustain and grow the UC Davis Police Department K-9 Program. This vital program has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, expanding to include PTSD and anxiety support dogs alongside our dedicated patrol and detection K-9s. These extraordinary animals provide comfort, support, and protection, offering services that extend beyond traditional policing to meet the diverse needs of our community.

A corgi with its tongue out wearing a red "Love on the Run" bandana around its neck.

Participants with their dogs at the starting line of the 5k beginning to run.

Small grey dog with running with its tongue out alongside its owner.

UC Davis Police and Fire staff making pancakes in an outdoor booth with participants lining up to be served.

A group photo of a UC Davis Police officer in uniform, a UC Davis Police staff member with a Love on the Run 5K medal, and the FOA Vice Chancellor with a 5K medal.

By participating, you can help honor the incredible K-9s who selflessly serve while ensuring they can continue making a difference in the lives they touch. Join us in celebrating these exceptional dogs and supporting their mission to protect and uplift our community.

Meet Our K-9s

Cali

Cali, a 14-month-old Labrador retriever, is the department's first specialized therapy dog. Certified by the AKC, she excels at creating calm in crises and promoting mental health awareness. Known for her cuddly companionship, her work has inspired therapy dog programs across UC campuses.
More about Cali

Leia

Leia, a Bernese mountain dog-poodle mix, is the newest member of the department’s CORE program. Partnered with Officer Joe Connors, she’s training to assist in high-stress and PTSD situations. Leia’s calm and caring nature continues the department’s tradition of using dogs to foster comfort and connection on campus.

Rono

Rono, a five-year-old German Shepherd, is a valued member of the department’s K-9 team. After completing 17 weeks of training at the CHP Academy, he now patrols the UC Davis Medical Center. Sociable yet cautious, Rono and his human partner assist staff during night shifts.
More about Rono