Weekend 5K race highlights a Macon couple’s efforts to rescue stray dogs, cats

Macon natives Mary and Johnny Crawford have always loved animals, but in 1996 they took that love to a new level and opened an animal rescue to keep animals alive and healthy.

“We are passionate about saving these lives because they are worth it,” said Mary Crawford. “There is no reason for an innocent soul to be neglected or killed, so if we have the space and resources to spare a life we will.”

Crawford said the heartfelt endeavor started with just her and her husband but soon grew. That’s when they knew they needed to start an official animal rescue to continue to help all the animals in need. After a few name changes, the nonprofit landed on All About Animals Rescue in 2002.

The rescue helps relieve overcrowded kill shelters throughout Georgia by taking their dogs on euthanasia lists and putting them into the rescue program. It also occasionally takes in pets surrendered by owners when it can to help reduce the number of dogs going into the county’s kill shelter.

“We make sure all pets we adopt out are fully vetted - up to date on shots, fixed, de-wormed, and with a microchip - and that they go to safe, loving homes,” said volunteer Paige Robinson.

Robinson said the difference between shelters and rescues is that shelters are generally city or state funded and they are managed and staffed by government agencies. That agency determines if and when animals must be euthanized. A rescue is privately owned, and funded through donations and grants.

“Most rescues take a no-kill stance, which means we do not euthanize to make space,” she said.

Approximately 20,000 cats and dogs were euthanized in Georgia in 2023, according to Best Friends Animal Society.

All About Animals currently has 80 rescue animals: 15 cats and about 65 dogs. Robinson said the rescue’s maximum capacity is 80 - a capacity it stays at regularly.

Those wanting to get involved can walk, bark, or run at the All About Animals 15th annual Rescue Run, which is happening Saturday. The event begins at 8 a.m.

The event will include a 1-mile race, 5K, and a 10.2K that will begin and end at Mt. Zion Baptist Church on Rivoli Road. The family-friendly event welcomes pets on a leash.

Overall awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers and the top masters male and female.

Age group awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups: 10 and under; 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, and 70-plus.

An award will also be given to the team with the most runners and walkers, according to the registration website.

“The most rewarding part of being involved with All About Animals Rescue is seeing a family find their perfect dog and seeing a dog find their perfect family,” said Robinson. “It makes all the long nights, early mornings, frustration, and struggle worth it.”

The race is part of the Macon Tracks/OrthoGa Race Series.

Robinson said the best way to contact All About Animal Rescue is through its social media.