Calgary Goes to the Dogs (In the Best Way Possible)

The Dog Days Just Got Lit: Welcome to Pet-a-Palooza

Hold onto your leashes, Calgary — Pet-a-Palooza is back, and it’s ready to throw down the most paws-itively unhinged celebration of canine chaos you’ve ever seen. July 25th and 26th, 8th Ave SE is going full fur-mode, as Day of the Dog takes over with a bark-and-roll energy that’s part block party, part wellness retreat, and 100% tail-waggin’ joy.

Imagine this: puppy yoga in the heart of the city. You’re in downward dog, and a doodle flops beside you. Heaven? No. Calgary. Add a dog pool party with wet fur and zero regrets, a puppy stampede that might just upstage the rodeo, and more free dog treats than a golden retriever’s wildest dreams — and you’ve got yourself a weekend that’s basically Coachella for canines.

Oh, and did we mention it’s free? Yup. Bring your pup. Bring your friends. Just don’t bring your cat. (Trust us.)

Fur, Fun, and FOMO: Why You’ll Want to Be There

Pet-a-Palooza isn’t just a festival — it’s a lifestyle. The streets of downtown will transform into a furry frenzy of local pet vendors, dog-themed swag, and Instagrammable everything. Think mini hydration stations, gourmet bone bars, live DJs spinning under a tent full of schnauzers, and swag bags that would put an awards show gift suite to shame.

And for the humans? Coffee, food trucks, and the deep, spiritual joy of being surrounded by hundreds of dogs who are clearly having the time of their lives.

Don’t have a dog? Doesn’t matter. You’ll leave with enough serotonin to last until next year — and possibly a strong desire to adopt three Frenchies and name them after the cast of Succession.

Corgi Race Showdown: Short Legs, Big Dreams

You know what Calgary didn’t know it needed until now? A 30-foot corgi race. That’s right — for the first time ever, these loaf-shaped legends are going head-to-head (well, head-to-stump) in a hilarious, high-stakes dash that’s less about speed and more about vibes.

WHEN:
🗓️ Saturday, July 26
🕚 Open registration before 11:00 AM
🏁 Race starts at 11:00 sharp

WHERE:
📍 Race Track – Day of the Dog grounds

WHO CAN ENTER?
If it’s a corgi, it’s eligible. No discrimination. No judgement. Just pure, unfiltered adorableness at high velocity. Winners take home major prizes and eternal glory — and let’s be honest, a slow-motion video of your corgi running in a banana costume is priceless.

So whether your pup is a certified athlete or just in it for the snacks, sign them up. Calgary’s crown for stubby-legged speedster is up for grabs, and your dog just might be the hero we didn’t know we needed.