On Saturday, February 9th, pet lovers from all over Central Florida will be gathered in Downtown Orlando’s Lake Eola for Orlando’s Largest Dog Walk and Pet Festival: Paws in the Park! Hosted by and benefitting the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, your attendance and support helps their mission to “educate, shelter, place and heal pets and their families with compassionate, responsible care”. Register for the walk, or just come hang at the festival– better yet, do both! All funds will help support the thousands of homeless pets that the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando cares for out of their two locations.
Not convinced yet? Below are 10 reasons why you won’t want to miss this event. Also, be sure to check out this map/guide of where everything will be located. Hope to see you there!
1. It’s active pup heaven.
Your pup will be sleeping well after an afternoon spent dock diving, chasing a mechanical lure, and showing their skills on the agility course.
2. Kick back with a brew.
There’s a beer garden. Do you even really need more reasons? Last year this spot was a mega hit and a perfect way to unwind with your pup in the gorgeous weather.
3. Up your pup intelligence.
Rocky’s Retreat will be hosting mini-seminars on all sorts of topics to help you become a more informed pup parent. A few (of the many) topics include: CBD oil for your dog, the benefits of raw feeding, and pet photography tips.
4. Indulge in local food trucks.
Orlando has definitely upped its game in the food truck space over the last several years, and we’re always up for an excuse to try a new one. So far there are 9 trucks who will be attending, with offerings ranging from tamales and lobster, to pizza and gelato. Can’t lose.
5. Add to your family.
Looking to welcome a new pup into your family, or know someone who is? Not only will Pet Alliance have plenty of adoptable dogs at this event, but 9 other rescues will also be onsite hoping to place pups in loving homes. It’s a perfect day to adopt another best friend!
6. Support local.
On our last count, there were nearly 60 vendors planning to attend, the vast majority focused on pet related services and products. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the local community and see what they have to offer you and your pups.
7. Bring the kids.
This event is family friendly, and a great chance to share your love of dogs with the whole family. The Rocky’s Retreat Fun Zone will have crafts for the kids, doggie tattoos, and don’t forget to stop by the photo booth.
8. Make a difference.
Registering to walk or making a donation is literally life changing for the homeless pets that the Pet Alliance cares for. Every single dollar helps ensure these pets find a safe and loving home.
9. Come say hi!
We’ll be there, and we want to meet you! Look for our tent with the Orlando Pup logo, and come by for a free sticker and an extra entry into our special giveaway— details on that coming soon!
10. Bond with your bestie.
Whether they’re engaging in all of the activities, or being carried around in between photo ops; no matter how you spend your day there, it’s a great day for your pup if it’s spent with you.
For full event details and logistics, please visit the official event website.
