Pups, pumpkins and paw prints: OKC Animal Welfare to host annual Dogtober Festival

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare will host its annual Dogtober Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Earlywine Park Pavilion, 3033 SW 119th St. The free, family-friendly event celebrates responsible pet ownership and gives residents the chance to meet their next four-legged friend. 

As part of the celebration, dog adoption fees will be waived for the day. The festival will also include a low-cost vaccine clinic provided by Angel Fund OKC, helping pet owners access affordable veterinary care. 

Attendees can enjoy live music, trick-or-treating, face painting, arts and crafts, and a Howl-o-ween parade and costume contest at noon. Pet registration for the contest will be accessible online between 10 and 11:45 a.m. Local pet supply vendors and food trucks will also be available throughout the day. 

“It’s a day of fun, families and wagging tails, and maybe the day you meet your new best friend,” said Ronnie Schlabs, OKC Animal Welfare superintendent. 

The Dogtober Festival coincides with National Adopt a Dog Month, observed each October to encourage pet adoption and raise awareness about the number of dogs waiting for homes. To mark the occasion, OKC Animal Welfare is offering reduced $30 adoption fees for all dogs throughout the month. 

Located at 2811 SE 29th St., OKC Animal Welfare is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with pet visits and adoptions beginning at noon. 

Residents can get involved in Adopt a Dog Month by adopting a dog, supporting local shelters by donating or volunteering, and spreading the word about pet adoption. 

For a day filled with food, fun and furry friends, mark your calendar for Dogtober Festival and join Oklahoma City Animal Welfare in celebrating the dogs that make life a little brighter.