Four-Legged Fun For The Whole Family - The Big Woof Festival Puts Wellness And Responsible Pet Ownership Center Stage

While known for its exciting dog sports, entertainment and family-friendly activities, The Big Woof Festival's mission extends beyond a weekend of fun. The festival aims to inspire informed, engaged pet owners by connecting families with professionals, resources and experiences that support the health, happiness and well-being of their four-legged companions.

"Our dogs bring so much joy to our lives, and we have a responsibility to give them the healthiest, happiest lives possible," said Laura Pequignot, Co-Founder of The Big Woof Festival. "We want the festival to be more than a celebration of dogs. We want families to leave with new knowledge, resources and a greater appreciation for the incredible bond we share with our pets."

A Festival-Wide Commitment to Wellness

New and expanded wellness initiatives throughout the festival will highlight the physical, mental and emotional well-being of both people and pets:

• Baptist Health Family Wellness Zone. As the festival's Official Family Wellness and Healthcare Sponsor, Baptist Health will introduce an interactive destination celebrating wellness at both ends of the leash. The zone will feature family health resources, a Human Enrichment area exploring the benefits of the human–animal bond through therapy dog interactions, and a Pup Enrichment area offering experiences that encourage physical activity, mental stimulation and play.

• My Pet Scan — Official Hydration Sponsor. Three dedicated dog hydration stations, strategically located throughout Regatta Park, will provide fresh drinking water to keep four-legged festivalgoers cool, comfortable and refreshed throughout the event.

• VEG ER — Official Emergency Services Station. Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG ER) will provide an on-site station staffed by veterinary professionals to assist with unexpected pet health concerns and share information about pet health, emergency preparedness and recognizing when urgent veterinary care may be needed.

• Wellness Pavilion: A dedicated destination connecting dog owners with pet wellness professionals, products and educational resources focused on preventive care, nutrition, physical activity and other important aspects of responsible pet ownership.

Celebrating the Human–Animal Bond and Giving Back

The festival's commitment to animal well-being also extends to supporting rescue organizations and encouraging responsible pet adoption. With PAWS4you Rescue serving as its primary beneficiary, The Big Woof Festival will bring together local rescues, pet professionals and community organizations to raise awareness about adoption and the importance of providing every dog with a safe, loving home.

The 2027 festival will also feature an expanded lineup of dog sports and competitions, live entertainment, the YMCA of South Florida Paws & Professions Career Day, the Kids Zone powered by Miami Children's Museum, shopping, food and beverages, and interactive experiences for dogs and their families.

About The Big Woof Festival

The Big Woof Festival is a two-day outdoor celebration of dogs and the people who love them, returning to Regatta Park in Coconut Grove Saturday, January 16th, 2027 – Sunday, January 17th, 2027. The festival brings together entertainment, dog sports and competitions, pet-focused experiences, family activities, shopping, food and beverages, adoption opportunities, wellness programming and more. For more festival information, please visit: www.thebigwooffest.com.

For Sponsor and Vendor Opportunities, please email: info@thebigwooffest.com.