Pet-Friendly Vacations; Annual Pet Events
There are two ways to travel with your pet: squeeze him into your existing plans, or schedule a vacation that’s pet-friendly on every level. If you’re interested in doing the latter, you may want to plan your trip around one of these fun pet events.
Strut Your Mutt Dog Parade and Festival, Bethesda, MD: Come to see exhibitors, dog contests, training shows, a parade, live music, and more. The event takes place annually in May.
Dogtoberfest, Portland, Oregon: The event includes live music, free grooming, and a street fair. All donations support the DoveLewis Blood Bank—one of the largest volunteer-based blood banks in America. Takes place annually in September.
Annual Howlywood Paws of Fame Dog Walk, San Dimas, CA: This event—which occurs annually in May—includes games and activities for you and your dog, sponsor booths, pet information booths, live music, food and more.
Woofstock, Santa Maria, CA: This “groovy dog festival for peace-loving hounds” occurs annually around June in Woof Pac Park—voted one of the top dog parks in the nation by Dog Fancy Magazine. You’ll enjoy food, drinks, vendors, prizes, and contests, including the world-famous Mug vs. Mug (dog/human look-alike) contest.
Pet-a-palooza, Las Vegas, NV: This annual event draws quite a crowd—around 20,000 people and 4,000 dogs attended last year…and a few exotic animals, as well! Activities include an obstacle course, contests, performances, and more. Admission is $5; children under 3 enter for free.
Don’t worry if you can’t make one of these events. There are smaller parades, walks, and pet fundraisers happening all the time all over the country.
