10.03.23 Jackson County Parks + Rec presents 29th Annual Dogtober Fest

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 3, 2023

Media Contact: Marcy Caldwell, Jackson County Parks + Rec

(816) 503-4831 | mcaldwell@jacksongov.org

 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited to join us for the 29th Annual Dogtober Fest on Sunday, October 22 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Kemper Outdoor Education Center, 8201 S. Jasper Bell Road, Blue Springs, MO. Event admission is free with your donation of dog food to benefit the Lee’s Summit Animal Shelter and other small, local shelters/rescues participating in the event. Our goal is to collect five tons!

Attendees will “PAWticipate” in dog-themed activities and competitions while exploring the goods, services and outreach efforts of more than 75 vendors. New in 2023: Paint Your Pet! Take a seat in front of a canvas, pre-drawn with your pet and our experts will walk you through the step-by-step process. No skill required. You will take home a painting of your pet that you’re sure to love! An additional fee and pre-registration are required for this activity.

What: 29th Annual Dogtober Fest

When: Sunday, October 22
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Kemper Outdoor Education Center
8201 Jasper Bell Road
Blue Springs, MO 64015

Cost: FREE with donation of canned or bagged dog food

On-Site Contact: Sarah Gauld, Site Administrator   
(816) 365-0411

Dogtober Fest 2023 is full of free contests and games throughout the day, such as Bobbing for Biscuits, Musical Discs and the beloved Halloween Costume Contest at 1:00 p.m. featuring three categories for those with three or more dogs: Frightful, Delightful and Group.

Guests will also enjoy exploring over 75 vendor booths including: 

  • Rescue Groups & Shelters
  • Veterinarians & Pet Groomers
  • Pet Photographers & Pet Painters
  • Dog Trainers, Doggy Daycares, Dog Boarders & Pet Sitters
  • Animal Supply Stores & Home Improvement Stores
  • Handmade Dog Items & Small Businesses
  • Pet Fences & Pet Cleaning Services
  • Car Dealerships, Insurance Agencies & More!

While Dogtober Fest is free to attend, visitors can purchase activity tickets to try something new or learn a sport. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the ticket booth or online prior to the event. Online registration closes October 19 at noon. Ticket costs are $7 for a single ticket, $12 for two tickets and $4 for each additional ticketed activity. There is something for every dog, regardless of their level of training:

  • Canine Adventure Challenge
  • Dog Walk
  • Agility Fun Runs
  • Teacup Agility Fun Runs
  • Nose Work Practice Search
  • Obedience Show & Go
  • Rally Show & Go
  • Trick Title Evaluation
  • Canine Good Citizen Test
  • Frisbee Competition (registration closes at 11:30 am)

For a complete list of activities and event schedule, visit the Dogtober Fest webpage.

About Kemper Outdoor Education Center

The Kemper Outdoor Education Center is owned and operated by Jackson County Parks + Rec.  Nestled in the Fleming Park Nature Preserve on the east side of Lake Jacomo, the Kemper Outdoor Education Center is a haven for nature lovers and educators. The grounds feature nature trails, butterfly and water gardens, wildlife viewing areas, an arboretum, a shelter house, large pond, and a day camp site.

 

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