Carrollton's Historic Downtown is set to wag its tail with the eighth annual Paws on the Square event kicking off on June 8. For one Saturday morning, from 9 a.m. until the high noon sun, pooches and their people will have the run of Broadway Street as the neighborhood goes to the dogs — in the best way possible. This furry family fest promises free fun for animal lovers of all stripes and is touted as the go-to gathering for those looking to enjoy pet-friendly activities, dig into local eats, and lap up the latest in animal care.
The event's line-up is an entertaining mix of playful and practical. Freebies like caricatures and pet photos are on tap, alongside light pet grooming services from JeTT Pets — free of charge. But it’s not just about pampering your four-legged friends. For residents of Carrollton, the event offers free pet registration with the only ask being proof of an up-to-date rabies vaccine. And for the critters in need of their shots, the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection has got the tab, providing low-cost vaccinations and microchipping services from 10 a.m. to noon, according to the City of Carrollton, Texas.
The city isn't just throwing a party — it's promoting pet responsibility, too. Cash and carry donations for Carrollton Animal Services (CAS) will be welcomed at their booth, where attendees can also get a scoop on adoption and volunteer opportunities. And those looking to support this event still have the chance to get in as a sponsor, joining the likes of Texans Credit Union who are already barking up that generous tree.
Attendance rules are strict but fair: all dogs must wear ID tags, remain on a leash, have a rabies shot (or get one on the spot), and stick with someone 18 years or older. The first batch of attendees will also fetch a dog-related promotional item until they've all been handed out. Travis Caperton, Carrollton Animal Services Manager, summed it up best. "Those looking to create lasting memories with their pets should definitely come out," Caperton said in a statement, as per the City of Carrollton, Texas.
