The pet trick-or-treating fundraiser is hosted by Renegade Paws Rescue and Locally Made Savannah

Celebrating a milestone event, the 20th annual Wag-O-Ween pet trick-or-treating event will be held on Saturday, October 25, and Sunday, October 26, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. in downtown Savannah and the Starland District. Humans and dogs alike are encouraged to dress up in Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat at over 200 participating local businesses, all while supporting area animal rescues.

As in years past, attendees can expect a photo station with costume contest, wiener fun run races for all dogs, and raffle prizes. Sponsors, vendors, and a dozen area rescue organizations will be set up in five downtown squares and a map guides attendees from Starland to River St.

Twenty years ago this event began as a small parade in downtown Savannah, organized by local business woman, Sara Portman, who passed in 2020. While the event has grown to cover two days, expanded to include the Starland District, and attracted thousands of attendees and observers, it holds true to its original purpose to raise funds for animals in need.

Event organizers Renegade Paws Rescue and Locally Made Savannah invite local rescues to participate in the event free of charge and they receive a portion of the funds raised. Rescues come from Savannah and surrounding counties, including South Carolina and Statesboro.

“When Renegade inherited this event we made sure to honor the original intent to be open to everyone - the community, pet owners, and local rescues. I know many people will agree with me when I say it's the best weekend to be in Savannah. It’s amazing to see so many pet parents out having fun, dressing up, and supporting rescues,” said Jennifer Taylor, director of Renegade Paws Rescue. “Sara [Portman] helped everyone who came to her door and in her honor that is what Wag-O-Ween will continue to do for years to come.”

The Sara Portman Community Fund was established to help pet owners facing challenges keep their pets, as Portman did from her store Canine Palace. A portion of the proceeds from Wag-O-Ween go to this fund for community spay/neutering, education, food pantry, and more.

Owner of Locally Made Savannah, Tonya Rintye, has also led the planning of this event since 2020 and knows that the local supporting local aspect of this event is what keeps it growing year after year.

“We are expecting over 2,000 wagging tails along with their families to attend this uniquely Savannah event,” said Rintye. “Locals and visitors alike get to experience our city in a special way while supporting local rescues, visiting local businesses, and supporting local vendors- all in costume!”

Registration and Other Event Information

Wag-O-Ween participants can register and donate ahead of time at wagoween.org. The $12 entry admits one pet for the entire weekend and includes a treat destination map, pet bandana, and doggy swag bag. The 20th annual collectible shirt and pet bandana was designed by local apparel business, Low Tide Thread Co.

Wag-O-Ween can be celebrated all of October at these kick off events. Details and registration can be found online.

• Saturday, October 4 | 5k and Fun Run celebrating 20 years! At Howe2Run
• Saturday, October 11 | Downtown Pack Walk
• Sunday, October 19 | Starland District Pack Walk

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. To learn more about Wag-O-Ween registration, treat destinations, donation opportunities, and volunteer opportunities, visit the Wag-O-Ween website at wagoween.org. The website will be updated frequently as more details are determined closer to the event.