Missoula Pet Fest 2025: Contests, Races & Adoptions

Get ready for a day filled with wagging tails, giveaways, and plenty of smiles. Missoula’s 20th Annual Pet Fest is set to return to Caras Park on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM. This free, family-friendly event is all about celebrating pets, connecting the community, and supporting local rescue shelters.

The Humane Society of Western Montana will be offering walk-in, “pay-what-you-can” vaccinations for cats and dogs, including rabies shots, plus microchipping, with no appointment required. Past vaccine records are helpful, but not necessary.

Adoptable Animals from Local Rescues

More than 10 local rescue groups will be on-site with adoptable animals, giving attendees a chance to meet dogs, cats, and a few surprise critters looking for their forever homes. Visitors are encouraged to bring unopened pet food donations to help these organizations continue their life-saving work.

Vendors, trainers, and groomers will also fill the park, offering everything from pet care tips and demonstrations to tasty treats and fun giveaways. There will be a food truck present and ice cream will be provided for both humans and pets to cool down.

One of the biggest highlights each year is the Wacky Wiener Dog Dash, and a playful series of contests open to all well-behaved pets.

Pet Contests and Event Schedule:

Best Dressed Pet – 10:30 AM
Best Pet Trick – 11:00 AM
Peanut Butter Lick – 11:30 AM
Babe Ruth Obedience Baseball – 12:30 PM
Timed Agility Course – 1:00 PM
Wacky Wiener Dog Dash – 2:00 PM
Animal Wonders Live Presentation – 2:30 PM

From costumed pups strutting their stuff to sausage dog racing with all the determination their short legs can muster, Pet Fest promises plenty of laughs and picture worthy moments.

If you’re looking to adopt, learn more about pet care, or simply spend a summer Saturday surrounded by furry friends, the Missoula Pet Fest is the place to be. It’s more than an event; it’s a tribute to the joy and companionship pets bring to our lives.