There’s a lot riding on us.
We help people save pets and pets save people through companion pet adoption for military veterans and spouses of the fallen. 85% of every dollar raised goes directly towards lifesaving programs.
Two routes. One purpose.
2026
Pets for Patriots Welcome Home Ride
November 15, 2026
Venice, Florida
Why we ride
To enhance the emotional, physical, and social well-being of our nation’s heroes and hero families while saving shelter animals.
Who we help
United States veterans from WWII to active duty, spouses of the fallen, and the most overlooked homeless dogs and cats nationwide.
Register
Fundraise
Volunteer
When: November 15, 2026
Rain or shine (no rain date)
Two routes:
Start/end at Sharkey’s On the Pier, Venice, Florida
Start times:
36 mile @8:30am
14 mile @9:30am
Post-ride lunch sponsored at Sharkey’s On the Pier
Registration fee:
Early bird: $60 (til 3/14/26)*
Standard: $65 (til 10/14/26)*
Last call: $70 (til 11/14/2026)
*Ride t-shirt included
Two routes. One purpose.
The shorter route stays on the island of Venice and is suitable for anyone with a bike. You’ll ride on the Intercostal Waterway and return through low-traffic roads through island neighborhoods, with a rest stop at Venice Beach Pavilion before returning to Sharky’s On the Pier.
The 36-mile ride begins by crossing the Intercostal Waterway and winding through the streets of South Venice. You’ll cross the Intercostal again and reach your first rest stop before one of the most scenic stretches—Manasota Key—steps from the Gulf with sweeping views on each side, before riding part of the Venetian Waterway Trail to Sharky’s.
Some rules for the ride:
SAG (support and gear). We have SAG vehicles along the routes to assist with needs like flat tires and minor adjustments. Please start your ride with properly inflated tires.
For the longer ride please have bike tubes, and a pump or CO2 cartidge.
Water. While water will be available at rest stops we encourage all riders to bring their own as well.