Run (or walk) for dogs!

Rover Rescue, a 7-year-old Redondo Beach dog rescue group, is putting out the call for dog owners and their pooches who want to start out their Fourth of July morning with a 5K run-walk sponsored by Redondo Beach Village Runner.

"People love it because it's local," said Danni Dean of Redondo Beach, an assistant to Rover Rescue President Cathy Rubin. "They can bring their dog and either run or walk. Last year we raised $9,000."

That's money that helps pay for shots and other medical care, along with boarding fees, for the many dogs Rover Rescue saves out of the Los Angeles County animal shelters.

Pledge sheets are available for participants to start raising money now. Although you can register the morning of the run (which begins at 8 a.m.), those interested are encouraged to do so in advance. Go to the Rover Rescue web site or call them at 310-379-0154 for all the details and instructions. Participants get a T-shirt and packets.

The route, which equals about 3.2 miles, goes along the Esplanade. The perfect spot to be on a bright, 4th of July summer morning.

Meanwhile, Rover Rescue will hold its next regular adoption event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 19 at Centinela Feed, 413 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach (they have them every other Saturday at the store).

I've never been to one of their events, but I have seen their picture board at the store. And I have to say, they manage to get the cutest dogs. Just check out their "before-and-after" pics on the web site. A couple years ago I spotted a dead ringer for my shaggy terrier mix Long Beach "pound" dog, Ellie, whom I lost earlier this year after a brief bout with lymphoma at the age of 13. 

And watch for details on the group's big upcoming celebration, probably in late June, marking the adoption of Rover Rescue's 1,000th dog.

Good job, guys.