West Suburban Humane Society to host Barkapalooza Sept. 29

Approximately 6.3 million dogs and cats enter U.S. shelters annually; 15% (920,000) are euthanized each year. The West Suburban Humane Society is a volunteer-based, no-kill animal rescue in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Since its founding in 1972, more than 31,000 animals have found new homes through the rescue organization. In 2022 alone, 512 of the animals placed in its care found new homes.

At West Suburban Humane Society, its mission is to work toward the day when all dogs and cats are loved and cared for, and pet owners have access to essential resources so they may enjoy a fulfilling relationship with their pets.

Join the Barkapalooza from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short St. The rescue fest includes a full day of family and pet-friendly activities and giveaways, including food trucks, pet contests, rescue groups, agility training, nail trimming, “Pooch Smooch,” and more. Rescue Fest entry is $20 per car.

The Rescue Run at 8 a.m. is a 5K chip-timed walk/run (eligible for time awards — overall and by age group). All 5K participants will receive a performance fit shirt and finisher medal, as well as entry to Rescue Fest.

The Waggin' Tails Walk at 9:30 a.m. is a 1-mile walk for families and crowd-friendly pets. All walk participants will be eligible for costume awards, as well as entry to Rescue Fest.

Online registration at raceroster.com/events/2024/87464/barkapalooza closes at 4 p.m. Sept. 28. On-site registration available for all events. Cost is $50 for the Rescue Run 5K; and $20 for individuals or $30 for a family for the walk.

All volunteer fundraisers who raise $100 or more will receive free entry into Rescue Fest, an event T-shirt, and additional fundraising incentives.

Register your dogs into the Barkminster Pet Contest. Entry is free.

Just sign up for one or more of the following categories when you register: dog and owner look-alike; Waggiest Tail; Silliest Tricks; Best in talking/speaking; and Funniest Ears.

Dog show registration can be selected as an add-on to your registration at no cost.

All proceeds from this event benefit the West Suburban Humane Society, and all participants in the 5K, Walk, and Rescue Fest are encouraged to customize their fundraising page and collect donations to help our dogs and cats. All fundraising participants in the 5K, Walk, and Rescue Fest will be eligible to earn a custom T-shirt and other goodies, based on fundraising levels.