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

The 19^th annual Wag-O-Ween pet trick-or-treating event will be held on Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, 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 follow their map to over 200 participating local businesses, all while supporting area animal rescues.

The event includes a photo station with costume contest, wiener fun run races for all dogs, and raffles in Pulaski Square throughout each day. Sponsors, vendors, and a dozen area rescue organizations will be set up in six downtown squares and a new scavenger hunt will take attendees on an adventure around the extensive map for a chance to win extra prizes.

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 Wag-O-Ween funds raised. Rescues come from South Carolina, Statesboro, and more, as well as the immediate Savannah area. 

Owner of Locally Made Savannah and former owner of event sponsor The Hipster Hound, Tonya Rintye 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 and 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!”

“Wag-O-Ween has grown from a small parade to a full weekend of activity and with that the difference we can make for animals in our community has grown exponentially,” said Jennifer Taylor, director of Renegade Paws Rescue. “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 and supporting rescues.”

In honor of local businesswoman and Wag-O-Ween event creator Sara Portman who passed away in 2020, 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 will go to this fund for community spay/neutering, education, food pantry, and more. 

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 and doggy swag bag. The 19th annual collectible shirt was design by local apparel business, Low Tide Thread Co. 

During the week of Wag-O-Ween, participants can also register in person or pick up their pre-orders at the following kick-off events:

• Wednesday, October 23, Starland Yard, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 24, Service Brewing Run Club, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 24, Wild Wing Cafe in Pooler, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
• Friday, October 25, Late Air Wine Bar in Savannah, 4:00-6:00 p.m.

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.