Missoula Goes to the Dogs (& Kitties) Saturday

If you're already a Missoula pet owner this may be the best weekend ever.

And if you're still "pet adjacent", this event will likely be so much fun you'll walk away with a new best friend.

For nearly 2-decades now, Pet Fest has served both ends of the spectrum, promoting both pet fun, and finding new "forever homes" for hundreds of dogs and cats over the years.

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When is Pet Fest in Missoula?

The 19th annual Pet Fest returns to Caras Park on Saturday, August 24th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

And before you ask, yes, the super popular Wacky Weiner Dog Dash is on the schedule. The "hot dogs" behave like hot rods during the race, which starts at 2 p.m.

If you don't have a dachshund, don't despair, because your pet can also enter other fun events, like the "peanut butter lick", "best-dressed contest, or the agility and obedience competitions. They might even win a gold, silver, or bronze medal in case you weren't able to fit Paris into your summer schedule.

Pick a pet

However, pet adoption and education are a big part of this event.

Our friends with the Western Montana Humane Society will be hosting the "Pay What You Can" pet vaccination clinic, so your dog, or cat can receive important vaccinations. (Cats should be brought to the event in containers). The clinic goes until 1 pm.

Twelve different shelters will be there with dogs and cats for adoption. That's a new record for participation. Vendors will also be there with goods and services, and you can browse pet food and care products and accessories.

Animal Wonders will be demonstrating animals with amazing abilities starting at 2:30 pm.

How much does Pet Fest cost?

Pet Fest is free, and like I always say on Daybreak with Dennis, "free is a very good price." Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of pet food and new, unopened bags of cat and dog food will be shared equally among the participating shelter and rescue operators.

For full rules and more information, visit the Pet Fest website.

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