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September 5, 2026
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Lake Cheston
What's a Pawcentric Event?
Events held by & supporting animal shelters and rescues
From adoption events to charity galas, microchip events and more, most shelters and rescues have activities for you to check out! If you don’t locate one on our calendar, view our list of organizations and find one in your area.
Note: You can use the SEARCH box below the calendar to check for an event in your State.
RESCUES & SHELTERS:
Events in September–October 2026
| MonMonday | TueTuesday | WedWednesday | ThuThursday | FriFriday | SatSaturday | SunSunday |
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August 31, 2026
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SeptemberSeptember 1, 2026 |
September 2, 2026
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September 3, 2026
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September 4, 2026
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September 5, 2026(2 events)
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Get ready for the 2nd Annual Bagger for BARCS Fundraiser Tournament! All proceeds benefit BARCS, helping animals in our community. Plus, the BARCS Offsite Adoption Team will be on site from 12–4 PM with adoptable animals, along with raffles, prizes, music from DJ Tony2Turnt, and plenty of food and drinks to enjoy throughout the day! Dundalk American Legion Post38 |
September 6, 2026(2 events) – 
Get ready for peace, love, and pets sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka!This summer, five Maryland animal shelters—The Humane Society of Harford County, BARCS, Maryland SPCA, Baltimore Humane Society, and Baltimore County Animal Services—are teaming up for a lifesaving mission that’s all about good vibes and second chances. Every weekend, a different shelter takes over our pop-up adoption store at THE AVENUE at White Marsh to help cats, dogs and even a few small critters find their forever homes. Swing by and meet adoptable pets, learn about local shelters, and soak in all the love that makes choosing adoption super groovy! *Adoption processes and fees vary by shelter. Use the links above to learn about each shelter’s requirements, available pets, and what’s included in their adoption fees The Avenue at White Marsh – 
Join us at the Kentlands PetSmart for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! All of our adoptable dogs are: PetSmart - Kentlands |
September 7, 2026(1 event) September 7, 2026 – September 11, 2026 
Even with the best care and a devoted staff, no shelter can replace a loving home. Waiting to find a family can take its toll on even the most resilient pet. Right now, the Richmond SPCA has more than 60 dogs waiting for a family, and new homeless dogs arrive at our center every day. From September 7 through 11, adoption fees for all dogs 6 months and older are waived. Our adoption center is open on Labor Day with regular hours, so it's a great day to start your search! No appointment necessary, just stop by and our adoption counselors will work with you to find a perfect match Adoption Center Hours A home like yours is exactly what a shelter dog is waiting for! Richmond SPCA |
September 8, 2026(2 events) September 7, 2026 – September 11, 2026
Even with the best care and a devoted staff, no shelter can replace a loving home. Waiting to find a family can take its toll on even the most resilient pet. Right now, the Richmond SPCA has more than 60 dogs waiting for a family, and new homeless dogs arrive at our center every day. From September 7 through 11, adoption fees for all dogs 6 months and older are waived. Our adoption center is open on Labor Day with regular hours, so it's a great day to start your search! No appointment necessary, just stop by and our adoption counselors will work with you to find a perfect match Adoption Center Hours A home like yours is exactly what a shelter dog is waiting for! Richmond SPCA – 
The Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park holds a monthly bereavement group to help you cope with the loss or extreme illness of a pet. Anyone whose pet has died, who has been lost, or is ailing/aging is welcome to join the group. This group meeting will be held virtually on Tuesday, September 8 from 7 pm – 9 pm. The group is a haven where individuals can freely talk about their pet knowing others are interested in hearing their story. It is a place of emotional and practical support, helping participants cope with their loss. Please join our free, non-denominational group, led by a bereavement counselor. You do not need to have your pet buried in Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park to join the group. All are welcome! Call us at 410-833-8848 extension 219 to RSVP or email us at petlossconnect@bmorehumane.org for login information Virtual |
September 9, 2026(2 events) September 7, 2026 – September 11, 2026
Even with the best care and a devoted staff, no shelter can replace a loving home. Waiting to find a family can take its toll on even the most resilient pet. Right now, the Richmond SPCA has more than 60 dogs waiting for a family, and new homeless dogs arrive at our center every day. From September 7 through 11, adoption fees for all dogs 6 months and older are waived. Our adoption center is open on Labor Day with regular hours, so it's a great day to start your search! No appointment necessary, just stop by and our adoption counselors will work with you to find a perfect match Adoption Center Hours A home like yours is exactly what a shelter dog is waiting for! Richmond SPCA – 
Wednesday nights at the CarMax Park are for the dogs! Join the fun during Bark in the Park, sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and celebrate the perfect combination of baseball and four-legged fun. Throughout the season, fans can enjoy the “Squirrel Chaser” specialty Tito’s cocktail, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the pets in our care and supporting our lifesaving programs. From 5:30 to 7 p.m., be sure to stop by our table to snag your Richmond SPCA merch, coloring sheets for the little ones or an adorable pet bandana for your pup to show off on the big screen! Dog-friendly seating is available in Sections 117 and 118. Grab your tickets today and don’t miss this paw-some night at the ballpark! Leashed pets are allowed on Bark in the Park nights only. Pet Safety Tip: Warm weather can pose serious risks for pets, even on days that may not feel especially hot to you. From heat stress and dehydration to hot pavement, understanding the dangers and taking a few simple precautions can help keep your pet safe and comfortable. To help you stay prepared, check out a helpful resource to keep your pets healthy and protected this summer. CarMax Park |
September 10, 2026(4 events) September 7, 2026 – September 11, 2026
Even with the best care and a devoted staff, no shelter can replace a loving home. Waiting to find a family can take its toll on even the most resilient pet. Right now, the Richmond SPCA has more than 60 dogs waiting for a family, and new homeless dogs arrive at our center every day. From September 7 through 11, adoption fees for all dogs 6 months and older are waived. Our adoption center is open on Labor Day with regular hours, so it's a great day to start your search! No appointment necessary, just stop by and our adoption counselors will work with you to find a perfect match Adoption Center Hours A home like yours is exactly what a shelter dog is waiting for! Richmond SPCA – 
Call today to make your September appointments - 301-694-8300. More details coming soon! Frederick County Humane Society – 
Summer of Love: Pet Adoption Store,
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September 11, 2026(3 events) September 7, 2026 – September 11, 2026
Even with the best care and a devoted staff, no shelter can replace a loving home. Waiting to find a family can take its toll on even the most resilient pet. Right now, the Richmond SPCA has more than 60 dogs waiting for a family, and new homeless dogs arrive at our center every day. From September 7 through 11, adoption fees for all dogs 6 months and older are waived. Our adoption center is open on Labor Day with regular hours, so it's a great day to start your search! No appointment necessary, just stop by and our adoption counselors will work with you to find a perfect match Adoption Center Hours A home like yours is exactly what a shelter dog is waiting for! Richmond SPCA September 11, 2026 – September 13, 2026 
Dine out. Do Good. Save Lives. Celebrate RVA's vibrant food and beverage scene – where great food, craft drinks, and your beloved pets come together for a tail-wagging time! You and your furry friends are invited to visit participating locations during Pups, Plates and Pours on September 12 and 13 in support of the Richmond SPCA. Join us at our kickoff paw-ty on Friday, September 11 at Final Gravity Brewing Co. for all sorts of fun, raffle exclusive swag, music and more!
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Start your Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Spirits Festival weekend at the Premium Wine & Spirits evening! For those who are wine and spirits connoisseurs, this is for you. Our selection of wines is hand-selected by experts from wineries around the world. Plus, we’ve added more single-barrel and high-end spirits to the evening! Saturday features 36 artisans, 200 national and international wines, 30-plus spirits, live entertainment, a football tent, food, and fun! Stay tuned - more info to come! Garrett County Fairgrounds |
September 12, 2026(4 events) September 11, 2026 – September 13, 2026
Dine out. Do Good. Save Lives. Celebrate RVA's vibrant food and beverage scene – where great food, craft drinks, and your beloved pets come together for a tail-wagging time! You and your furry friends are invited to visit participating locations during Pups, Plates and Pours on September 12 and 13 in support of the Richmond SPCA. Join us at our kickoff paw-ty on Friday, September 11 at Final Gravity Brewing Co. for all sorts of fun, raffle exclusive swag, music and more!
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Start your Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Spirits Festival weekend at the Premium Wine & Spirits evening! For those who are wine and spirits connoisseurs, this is for you. Our selection of wines is hand-selected by experts from wineries around the world. Plus, we’ve added more single-barrel and high-end spirits to the evening! Saturday features 36 artisans, 200 national and international wines, 30-plus spirits, live entertainment, a football tent, food, and fun! Stay tuned - more info to come! Garrett County Fairgrounds – 
Join us on Saturday, September 12 at Rotary Park in Mequon for Pet Walk, our largest walk and outdoor celebration supporting the Wisconsin Humane Society. Every registration, donation, vendor booth, and sponsorship fuels WHS programs that serve more than 65,000 animals and people each year. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Pukaite Woods and a mission-filled morning with music, family-friendly activities, great food, a vibrant vendor village, and the chance to truly make a difference. All proceeds from Pet Walk support the Wisconsin Humane Society. Everyone can help. You can make a difference. Start your own team, join an existing team or participate as an individual. Not able to participate on Septembe 12, but still want to help? Become a “Virtual Walker” and raise funds for the animals from anywhere! Learn more and register today at www.petwalkozaukee.com.  Please consider fundraising and supporting our lifesaving work for animals and the people who love them! Rotary Park –
Are you ready to find your new best friend?! Come out to Purcellville for our cat and dog adoption event at Pet Supplies Plus from 11am – 1pm! Pet Supplies Plus |
September 13, 2026(5 events) September 11, 2026 – September 13, 2026
Dine out. Do Good. Save Lives. Celebrate RVA's vibrant food and beverage scene – where great food, craft drinks, and your beloved pets come together for a tail-wagging time! You and your furry friends are invited to visit participating locations during Pups, Plates and Pours on September 12 and 13 in support of the Richmond SPCA. Join us at our kickoff paw-ty on Friday, September 11 at Final Gravity Brewing Co. for all sorts of fun, raffle exclusive swag, music and more!
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Join us for a special dog-friendly tour of Scott’s Addition, presented in collaboration with the Richmond SPCA! Originally named for General Winfield Scott, this early-20th century commercial and industrial area contains what is perhaps Richmond’s best selection of Art Deco and Moderne commercial architecture. Dig into the history behind this popular Richmond district, now a booming residential neighborhood.
The Valentine’s walking tours are supported in part through a generous partnership with Richmond Region Tourism and The Valentine Museum.Patrick Henry Park – 
Summer of Love Adoption Event Presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka This summer, let the good vibes roll—for you and the animals! Five amazing Maryland shelters—BARCS, Maryland SPCA, Baltimore Humane Society, Baltimore County Animal Services, and The Humane Society of Harford County—are joining forces for a feel-good adoption event like no other. Each weekend, a new shelter pops up at THE AVENUE at White Marsh to showcase lovable cats and dogs in search of forever homes. Come out to meet your new best friend, connect with local shelters, and celebrate the joy of pet adoption in the happiest, grooviest way possible! We will be there: Sat 7/18 12-4pm
Sun 7/26 12-4pm
Thurs 8/6 3-7pm
Sat 8/15 12-4pm
Sat 8/22 12-4pm
Sun 9/13 12-4pm
Sat 9/26 12-4pm
Address: 8139 Honeygo Blvd C, Nottingham, MD 21236 The Avenue at White Marsh – 
Honor the legacy of Kat Simons while celebrating her life and the causes that were dearest to her. Friends of Kat Simons is hosting a free celebration featuring live music, pet adoptions, kids activities, food trucks and support of Kat’s favorite charitable organizations. Enjoy performances from Cameron Francis, Not Just 90s Unplugged, featuring Jenna Be, Willie Williams, Joey Davis Band and The KOS Band. All festivities are taking place at Richmond Harley-Davidson in Ashland, VA. Stop by the Richmond SPCA tent to meet our volunteers, learn more about our lifesaving work, and discover the many ways you can support animals in our community! Richmond Harley-Davidson – 
Join us for the 15th Annual Pet Memorial Sunday at the Baltimore Humane Society.
When: Sunday, September 13 from 6:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Where: Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park (1601 Nicodemus Road, Reisterstown) This special evening brings our community together to celebrate and honor the beloved pets who have touched our lives. The event will conclude with a beautiful candle-lighting ceremony as we remember the pets we have loved and lost.
During this meaningful evening you can expect:
This event is free and open to everyone, and it’s dog-friendly — leashed, well-behaved dogs are always welcome.
The program will take place outdoors in our peaceful, historic pet cemetery. Baltimore Humane Society |
September 14, 2026
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September 15, 2026
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September 16, 2026
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September 17, 2026(1 event) – 
Explore unique antiques, artisan goods and timeless treasures from an exceptional collection of dealers, artists and makers at the East Coast Antiques Art & Design Expo. Meet experts, discover inspiration for your home and garden, and enjoy a day filled with live music, local food and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're searching for a special find or simply looking for a fun day out, the Expo offers something for everyone. For the ultimate experience, purchase a ticket to the First Access Thursday Shopping Party and be among the first to browse and shop the show before it opens to the public. Tickets are $75 and includes admission to the exclusive preview event, access to all three days of the Expo weekend, live music, Le Gouter” snack bar and entry to win a $500 Expo gift card when purchased by August 31, 2026 Best of all, the East Coast Antiques Art & Design Expo will donate $25 from every First Access Thursday Shopping Party ticket to support our lifesaving work and the pets in the community!
The Old Dominion Building-Richmond Raceway Complex |
September 18, 2026
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September 19, 2026(2 events) –
Summer of Love: Pet Adoption Store,
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September 20, 2026(2 events) –
Get ready for peace, love, and pets sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka!This summer, five Maryland animal shelters—The Humane Society of Harford County, BARCS, Maryland SPCA, Baltimore Humane Society, and Baltimore County Animal Services—are teaming up for a lifesaving mission that’s all about good vibes and second chances. Every weekend, a different shelter takes over our pop-up adoption store at THE AVENUE at White Marsh to help cats, dogs and even a few small critters find their forever homes. Swing by and meet adoptable pets, learn about local shelters, and soak in all the love that makes choosing adoption super groovy! *Adoption processes and fees vary by shelter. Use the links above to learn about each shelter’s requirements, available pets, and what’s included in their adoption fees The Avenue at White Marsh –
Join us at the Leesburg PetCo for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! Spend time with some of our fabulous dogs and find the new best friend you’ve been looking for. All of our adoptable dogs are: PetCo-Leesburg |
September 21, 2026
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September 22, 2026
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September 23, 2026(1 event) – 
Whether you're new to Trap-Neuter-Return or have years of experience, this workshop is designed to help you improve your skills, access valuable information and resources, and increase your success trapping community cats. Learn the essential techniques, safety practices, and planning considerations needed to successfully trap, transport, and care for outdoor community cats through the TNR process. Workshop Highlights:
Whether you're trapping your first cat or managing large colonies, you'll leave with the knowledge, confidence, and resources to make your TNR efforts safer, more effective, and more successful. Attendees will receive a digital certificate of completion. The workshop is 2 hours followed by 15 minutes of Q&A. The workshop is free, but registration is required. A pizza supper is included. Instructors: Peggy Lynch and Jen Simunek are with SOS Cats RVA. They bring 30-plus years of collective TNR experience to this workshop instruction. SOS Cats RVA is an all-volunteer trap, neuter, and return organization whose mission is to build a more humane community that embraces compassionate approaches to reducing feline overpopulation, homelessness, and needless suffering. In 2025, SOS Cats RVA facilitated TNR for over 400 community cats. Richmond SPCA |
September 24, 2026(2 events) –
Summer of Love: Pet Adoption Store,
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September 25, 2026(2 events) – 
Seattle Humane is proud to introduce our inaugural Together for Pets Luncheon—a new, community-centered event that brings us together to celebrate the people and partnerships behind our lifesaving work. Join us for inspiring stories, a special keynote speaker Welcoming Antoni Porowski!
As a special treat, we will welcome animal advocate and pet parent Antoni Porowski from the hit series Queer Eye and National Geographic’s upcoming series Best Of The World as our keynote speaker. Hyatt Regency 
Rockville Moose Lodge |
September 26, 2026(2 events) –
Summer of Love Adoption Event Presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka This summer, let the good vibes roll—for you and the animals! Five amazing Maryland shelters—BARCS, Maryland SPCA, Baltimore Humane Society, Baltimore County Animal Services, and The Humane Society of Harford County—are joining forces for a feel-good adoption event like no other. Each weekend, a new shelter pops up at THE AVENUE at White Marsh to showcase lovable cats and dogs in search of forever homes. Come out to meet your new best friend, connect with local shelters, and celebrate the joy of pet adoption in the happiest, grooviest way possible! We will be there: Sat 7/18 12-4pm
Sun 7/26 12-4pm
Thurs 8/6 3-7pm
Sat 8/15 12-4pm
Sat 8/22 12-4pm
Sun 9/13 12-4pm
Sat 9/26 12-4pm
Address: 8139 Honeygo Blvd C, Nottingham, MD 21236 The Avenue at White Marsh –
We’ll be at the Urbana PetSmart from 12-2 with irresistible dogs. Come for the cuddles, leave with a new best friend! All of our adoptable dogs are: PetSmart-Frederick |
September 27, 2026(1 event) –
Join us at the Leesburg PetCo for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! Spend time with some of our fabulous dogs and find the new best friend you’ve been looking for! All of our adoptable dogs are: PetCo-Leesburg |
September 28, 2026
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September 29, 2026
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September 30, 2026
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OctoberOctober 1, 2026 |
October 2, 2026
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October 3, 2026(1 event) –
Taylors Park Greenway Estill Springs, TN |
October 4, 2026(2 events) –
Join us at the Kentlands PetSmart for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! PetSmart - Kentlands –
Join us at the Kentlands PetSmart for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! PetSmart - Kentlands |
October 5, 2026
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October 6, 2026
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October 7, 2026
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October 8, 2026(1 event) –
On Thursday evenings in the spring and summer, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden stays open in the evening for Flowers After 5, and twice a month dogs are welcome to attend for Fidos After 5! It's the perfect time to stroll through the gardens with your dog and enjoy beautiful flowers, beverages, live music, and more. A suggested "pet admission" donation of any amount benefits the Richmond SPCA. Leashed pets are allowed on Fidos nights only. All dogs must be leashed and current on rabies vaccinations. Retractable leashes are not permitted. Flat leashes will be available to borrow from the Richmond SPCA's table. Regular Garden admission applies. $20 for adults; $15 for seniors; $15 for military; $10 for children ages 3 - 12; free for children under age 3 and free admission for Garden Members. Purchase your tickets today! Note: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden welcomes dogs in the Robins Visitor Center and Conservatory, but asks that they not enter the Kelly Education Center building. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden |
October 9, 2026
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October 10, 2026(1 event) –
Are you ready to find your new best friend?! Come out to Purcellville for our cat and dog adoption event at Pet Supplies Plus from 11am – 1pm! Pet Supplies Plus |
October 11, 2026
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October 12, 2026
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October 13, 2026
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October 14, 2026
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October 15, 2026
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October 16, 2026
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October 17, 2026(1 event) – 
You’re invited to an unforgettable evening in support of the Wisconsin Humane Society! Join us for the 2026 Paws & Claws Gala: A Night at the Amusement Bark on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at The Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. Our signature black-tie celebration is a night where compassion meets celebration. Enjoy a lively cocktail reception, exciting silent and live auctions, raffles and games, a gourmet dining experience, and most importantly – powerful stories of the animals and people whose lives are changed because of supporters like you. Did we mention it’s also the only gala in town where you can mingle with adorable puppies and our very best animal ambassadors during the reception? It’s an up-close, heartwarming experience you won’t find anywhere else. Every bid, every paddle raise, every ticket purchase, and sponsorship helps provide medical care, shelter, and support for the more than 65,000 animals and families served by WHS each year. Reserve your seat today and be part of a magical evening that changes lives. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! The Pfister Hotel |
October 18, 2026(1 event) – 
It's another day packed with costumed-puppy fun! Seville Square & Fountain Park Pensacola, FL |
October 19, 2026
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October 20, 2026
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October 21, 2026
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October 22, 2026(1 event) –
On Thursday evenings in the spring and summer, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden stays open in the evening for Flowers After 5, and twice a month dogs are welcome to attend for Fidos After 5! It's the perfect time to stroll through the gardens with your dog and enjoy beautiful flowers, beverages, live music, and more. A suggested "pet admission" donation of any amount benefits the Richmond SPCA. Leashed pets are allowed on Fidos nights only. All dogs must be leashed and current on rabies vaccinations. Retractable leashes are not permitted. Flat leashes will be available to borrow from the Richmond SPCA's table. Regular Garden admission applies. $20 for adults; $15 for seniors; $15 for military; $10 for children ages 3 - 12; free for children under age 3 and free admission for Garden Members. Purchase your tickets today! Note: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden welcomes dogs in the Robins Visitor Center and Conservatory, but asks that they not enter the Kelly Education Center building. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden |
October 23, 2026
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October 24, 2026(3 events) October 24, 2026 
BARCStoberfest is an annual, large-scale, pet-friendly festival and fundraiser that benefits the lifesaving programs and animal care at the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS). The Patterson Park festival includes the annual "Ready, Set, SNIFF!" 5K Run/Half-Mile Pet Parade, Howl-o-Ween Pet Costume Contest, Barkin' Beer Garden, vendors, kids’ activities, and more! Fundraising leading up to BARCStoberfest raises critical funding for Maryland’s highest volume, an open-admission shelter serving 12,000 animals per year. Our goal this year is $400,000, so please join us to raise funds for our community's needy animals! Patterson Park –
We’ll be at the Urbana PetSmart from 12-2 with irresistible dogs. Come for the cuddles, leave with a new best friend! All of our adoptable dogs are: PetSmart - Urbana Pike –
We’ll be at the Urbana PetSmart from 12-2 with irresistible dogs. Come for the cuddles, leave with a new best friend! All of our adoptable dogs are: PetSmart - Urbana Pike |
October 25, 2026
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October 26, 2026
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October 27, 2026
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October 28, 2026
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October 29, 2026
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October 30, 2026
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October 31, 2026
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NovemberNovember 1, 2026(1 event) –
Join us at the Kentlands PetSmart for our dog adoption event from 12 pm – 2 pm! PetSmart - Kentlands |
