Runners of all ages are encouraged to give thanks by supporting their four-legged friends this month for the Suffolk Humane Society.

To benefit the Suffolk Humane Society, the Riverfront Swim Club is holding its 12th annual Turkey Trot 5K Run and Walk on Nov. 14 at 9 a.m.

“We’ve just made it a real family-friendly event,” said Pam Sweet of Riverfront Swim Club. “There’s a local band that comes out to warm up the crowd, and this year we’ve even got Bernie the Saint Bernard from (Nansemond-Suffolk Academy).”

Participants will trot through the Riverfront community in Suffolk’s Harbour View area, before being eligible to enjoy free food, fun and awards afterwards.

“One hundred percent of proceeds go to the humane society,” said Eileen Gizara, executive director of the humane society. “We’re really grateful for everything the Riverfront Swim Club has done for us, and we’re very happy that they partner with us.”

Last year’s Turkey Trot attracted more than 170 people and raised more than $4,000, but this year’s event has already beaten that total.

“So far we’ve already raised $4,400,” Gizara said.

That amount is only from sponsorships and donations and does not include the registrations that are steadily coming in, according to Sweet.

The Riverfront Swim Club is a membership-only swim club. It has been holding the Turkey Trot since 2004, and supporting the Suffolk Humane Society through it since 2007.

The registration fee for adults is $18 before race day and $20 on race day. For children, the fee is $15 before race day and $17 on race day. The event will take place rain or shine, and will start and finish at the Swim Club, located at 5301 Sports Club Run.

There are seven age divisions, and a 1K Gobbler Run for children 12 and under will also be held.

Dogs are allowed to participate as well as long as they remain leashed.

The Suffolk Humane Society is also accepting pet supply donations at this event. Besides basic pet food and dog or cat toys, they are in need of: Purina Pro Plan Chicken and Rice cat and kitten food, canned cat food, Tidy Cat clumping litter, and towels and collapsible wire crates.