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Barking news: Paws in the Park returns to Lake Eola next month

Paws in the Park Paws in the Park returns Feb. 12. (Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando/Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando)

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get your furry friends ready: Orlando’s largest pet festival returns next month.

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Paws in the Park kicks off Feb. 12 at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando. It will again feature pets ready for adoption, doggy sports, a pet costume contest and parade, food trucks, a beer garden, pet-friendly vendors and the return of the popular dock diving for dogs.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It supports the mission of the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the region’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency. Funds raised from the event will help Pet Alliance save over 5,200 dogs and cats by providing shelter, care and love until they find their forever home.

READ: More than $50K donated to Pet Alliance during Betty White Challenge

The event happens about five months after the devastating fire that decimated its Millenia location. Firefighters managed to rescue 45 cats and 26 dogs from the burning building. Sadly, dozens of cats died in the fire.

PHOTOS: Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando fire

“We are extra happy about the return of our Paws in the Park festival this year,” Pet Alliance Executive Director Steve Bardy said in a news release. “After what has undoubtedly been an extremely challenging year for us and for many, we could not think of anything better than gathering together outside with our incredible animal loving community and celebrating the deep love we all have for our furry family members and friends at what is always a fun-filled and memorable day for everyone.”

The event kicks off with fundraising awards followed by the pet costume contest with celebrity judges and cash prizes. This year’s themes are stars of film and TV, favorite food and dogs with jobs. Click here to register.

See photos of Paws in the Park below:

READ: More than 50,000 meals donated to Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando

All attendees and their fur pals can also enjoy a full day of activities for both humans and canines such as the return of the dock diving for dogs, lure courses, a beer garden, food trucks, pet products and plenty of pet adoption opportunities.

Pet Alliance’s mobile vet unit will also be on site to provide free vaccines.

READ: Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando fire ruled an accident

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.

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