Pawtoberfest breaks fundraising record for abused and homeless pets

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A group of four-legged supporters of the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) brought their humans to the 2024 Pawtoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 14, to participate in activities and raise funds for abused and homeless pets. The annual fundraiser set a record, raising more than $210,000.

This was the first year Pawtoberfest was held at its new location, the Union Printers Home at Printers Hill, across from Memorial Park, which provided greater accessibility for guests. FOX21 News Anchors Scott Kilbury and Abbie Burke acted as emcees for the event, which featured fun for the whole family, pets included.

Activities included pet contests like “Pooch Smooch,” “Owner-Pet Lookalike,” and “Best Trick.” Several photo ops gave owners a chance to show off their photogenic dogs, including a bench photo set and the FOX21 News tent, where pups could pose riding in Baby Squatch.

Food from local food trucks such as Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap, 4th Avenue Crepes, and Ciao Down gave guests a chance to picnic on the lawn, while beer, non-alcoholic drinks, and spirit tastings were offered at the beer garden.