By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PARADE
If you love animals, you will love this heart-warming event that will benefit the 501c3 nonprofit Laguna Madre Humane Society (LMHS). Barktoberfest 2025, set for the last Sunday in October, the 26th, will be the 3rd annual celebration that combines fun, food, and furry friends in a festive gathering at the Hopper Haus in Port Isabel that supports a mission close to so many local hearts: protecting and improving the lives of animals in need.
Barktoberfest isn’t just another fall festival—it’s a chance for the community to come together in the spirit of compassion. Judy Scollard, the Vice President of the LMHS said, “Every ticket sold, and every donation goes directly toward LMHS programs. We have fabulous raffle prizes that include two fishing trips, gifts certificates, and gift baskets!”
The LMHS programs include low-cost veterinary services, spay and neuter surgeries, animal rescue and transport, and foster support. The event ensures that LMHS can continue saving lives and preventing unnecessary suffering, especially in an area where stray and abandoned animals are an ongoing challenge.
Events like Barktoberfest play a vital role in bridging that gap, giving LMHS the means to pull animals off euthanasia lists, treat sick or injured pets, and prepare them for adoption into loving homes.
Barktoberfest 2025 is an afternoon event that promises an unforgettable day for the entire family—pets included! Festival-goers can look forward to:
- Pet Costume Contest – From superheroes to pumpkins, the creativity and cuteness will be off the charts.
- Stein Holding Contest
- Adoption Alley – Meet animals looking for their forever homes in case anyone wants to adopt a new best friend.
- Buy A Draft – Keep the Glass
And of course, Barktoberfest is a celebration of community. It’s where neighbors connect, businesses show their support, and every wagging tail reminds us why this work matters.
LMHS has been a lifeline for animals across the Rio Grande Valley. Their work goes beyond sheltering—they educate pet owners, provide affordable veterinary care, and transport animals to no-kill shelters up north when space runs out locally. Without LMHS, countless cats and dogs would have no second chance.
By attending Barktoberfest, you’re directly investing in the health, safety, and dignity of animals across the Laguna Madre region. Every dollar raised helps fund vaccines, surgeries, food, and rescue missions that save lives daily.
Mark your calendars for the last Sunday of the month, the 26th of October, and bring your family, friends, and furry companions. You can support Barktoberfest by:
- Attending and purchase $5 raffle tickets
- Becoming a sponsor
- Volunteering to help with set-up, activities, or clean-up.
- Donating items for raffles or the Whiskers Resale Shop.
For details, visit or follow the Laguna Madre Humane Society on Facebook and lnstagram or their website lmhsclinic.com.Community, compassion, paws celebrated in Laguna Madre
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