The Ultimate Guide to Pet-Friendly Events This Summer
Where to go, what to bring, and how to make it paw-some.
Summer is the season of sunshine, community fun, and outdoor adventures — and there’s no better time to include your four-legged friend. Whether you're looking for a local adoption fair, a doggie splash party, or a pet-friendly farmers market, this guide has everything you need to plan your pet-friendly summer calendar.
🗓️ Types of Pet-Friendly Events to Look For
Not sure what’s out there? These are some of the most popular dog and cat-friendly events you’ll see in most cities:
🐶 Dog Days at the Park
Baseball teams, city rec departments, and outdoor venues often host dog-themed nights. Bring your pup, enjoy a game or movie, and mingle with other pet lovers.
🎉 Pet Festivals
These events often feature vendor booths, food trucks, agility demos, pet contests, and even costume parades. Many benefit local shelters and rescues.
🛍️ Outdoor Markets & Pop-Ups
Weekend farmers markets, artisan fairs, and pop-up shops often allow leashed pets. Bonus if they include a booth from a local pet artist (like Pearls & Paws 👋).
🐾 Adoption Events
Support your local rescue and maybe meet your next best friend. Even if you're not adopting, you can donate supplies, volunteer, or just give some belly rubs.
💦 Dog Splash Days
Many communities open up their public pools for one last splash — just for dogs! These are safe, fenced events full of wet, happy chaos.
📍 How to Find Pet-Friendly Events in Your Area
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Check Facebook Events and search for "dog-friendly" or "pet event" + your city
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Use event platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, and AllEvents.in
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Follow local animal shelters, parks & rec departments, and pet boutiques on Instagram
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Look for seasonal dog events at breweries, coffee shops, and dog bars
💡 Search tip: Try terms like “dog-friendly events near me this summer,” “pet festivals [your city],” or “dog splash day [your town].”
🎒 What to Pack for Your Pet
Heading to a summer event? Here’s your go-bag checklist:
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🧴 Water bottle + collapsible bowl
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☀️ Cooling bandana or vest
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💩 Waste bags (always!)
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🦴 Treats or snacks
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🎟️ Vaccination records (some adoption or large events require them)
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🧼 Wipes or towel for muddy paws
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🪪 ID tags & updated microchip info
🐾 Make it Memorable: Capture the Day
Take LOTS of photos! You can even turn your favorite event moment into a custom pet portrait with us. Whether it’s a splash in the pool or your pup’s first fair, we’ll help you turn the memory into art.
🤝 Bonus Tip: Host Your Own Pet-Friendly Event
Can’t find something local? Team up with a rescue or pet-friendly business and organize a mini event!
➡️ Check out our blog: How to Host a Pet-Friendly Event in Your Community
