OV Bark in the Park event to showcase local rescues and resources

Published on October 09, 2025

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (Oct. 9, 2025) – Calling all dog lovers! Join us Saturday, Oct. 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. for Bark in the Park, a free community event hosted by the Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Department at Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road.

Bring your family, friends and furry companions for an evening of fun dedicated to our canine friends! For everyone’s safety, please ensure dogs remain leashed and owners clean up after their pets.

Highlights include a dog costume contest (on-site registration), adoptable dogs from local shelters, family-friendly activities and plenty of tail-wagging fun. Prizes for the best-dressed dogs will be provided by Hounds Town Tucson & Marana.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025
• Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley
• Cost: Free!
  
  

Event highlights:

• Meet adoptable dogs from local rescues and shelters
• Visit with local pet-related businesses and organizations
• Enjoy food, drinks and sweet treats from local food trucks onsite
• Participate in the dog costume contest
• Let your pet play in ball pits filled with tennis balls
• Get creative on puppy crafts for kids including creating inkless heirloom paw print art, decorating a bandana, and creating a “friends fur-ever” friendship bracelet with your dog's name
• Capture memories at a themed photo booth with printable photo strips, generously sponsored in part by Purina’s Purple Leash Project
• Support the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and the Purple Leash Project, which raises awareness and increases access for pet owners seeking safety and support in domestic violence shelters
  
  

Special thanks to our event partners, the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine and Purina's Purple Leash Project.

For more information, visit the Town’s event page or contact Assistant Parks and Recreation Manager and event coordinator Catherine Arlet at carlet@orovalleyaz.gov.

Town event page: Bark in the Park 2025 – Oro Valley | it's in our nature

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