Upcoming Events
Discover our upcoming events, mark your calendar, and bring friends, family, or come solo to support our mission and make unforgettable memories with us.
From Pug Yoga to our big annual Pug-O-Ween, every event brings us closer to finding forever homes for our furry friends. See what’s coming up. We can’t wait to see you there!
North Texas Giving Day
Join our community in giving for North Texas Giving Day
At DFW Pug Rescue, our biggest expense by far is medical care. This North Texas Giving Day, you can help us continue our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pugs in need, no matter their age, condition, or cost.
Early giving starts August 18. The official North Texas Giving Day is September 17.
The reality of where we’re at…
This year in March and April alone, we took in nearly 100 pugs and averaged $47,800 in vet bills per month! Each month since, our monthly expenses have grown.
2026 has has had more intake than we’ve EVER experienced and our funds are completely depleted.
We need more than individual gifts this year.
Medical needs are rising faster than donations, and we’re asking our community to think bigger this North Texas Giving Day.
That means:
Checking if your employer offers donation matching
Asking your company about corporate giving or sponsorships
Making a one-time gift in honor of a group, team, or business
Sharing this campaign with others who can give alongside you
Every dollar is tax-deductible, and every expanded gift helps us continue lifesaving medical care for pugs who arrive with urgent, complex needs.
What Your Donation Covers
$20 = One month of flea and tick prevention for one pug
$25 = One day of boarding for one pug
$35 = Heartworm prevention for one pug for one month
$57 = Basic veterinary exam
$270 = Exam + vaccinations
$300 = Spay or neuter
$900 = Prescription food for one pug for one month
$2,500 = Major surgery (like eye removal or hip repair)
Our goal is to raise $20,000 during this North Texas Giving Day running August 18 - September 17.
Vendor at Wags & Waves
Join us for Wags & Waves at Hawaiian Waters Garland on September 19!
Bring your pup and spend the day enjoying dog-friendly water activities, including pools, the wave pool, lazy river, slides, and more.
DFW Pug Rescue will be there as a vendor with our booth, rescue information, and merchandise. Come by and meet the team!
📅 September 19, 2026
⏰ 10 AM–3 PM
📍 Hawaiian Waters Garland: 4550 N Garland Avenue, Garland, TX 75040
🎟️ Tickets: $28 per person | Children 2 and under are free
https://ticketpeak.com/go/wagsandwaves/events
A waiver is required for all attendees.
Please note: DFW Pug Rescue is participating as a vendor. Ticket purchases do not benefit the rescue, and no pugs will be available for adoption at this event.
Great Pug Grumble
We are excited to be an Official Rescue Beneficiary Partner at the Great Pug Grumble in Austin!
We're excited to share that DFW Pug Rescue has been selected as an official Rescue Beneficiary Partner for the 2026 Great Pug Grumble, one of the largest pug gatherings in the country.
On Saturday, October 17, thousands of pugs and their people will gather at Sherwood Forest Faire near Austin for a day dedicated to celebrating everything we love about these snorting, shedding, lovable little dogs. Last year's event welcomed an incredible 755 pugs, and organizers expect this year's Grumble to be even bigger.
The event features pug races, a Pup Cup eating contest, a pug parade, wellness activities, professional photos, off-leash play areas, vendors, food, drinks, and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow pug enthusiasts.
Best of all, proceeds from the event help support Texas-based pug rescues, including DFW Pug Rescue. Every ticket purchased helps provide medical care, safe foster homes, and second chances for pugs in need.
Whether you're a longtime adopter, foster, volunteer, supporter, or simply someone who can't resist a wrinkly face and curly tail, this is the ultimate pug-lover's day out.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Sherwood Forest Faire, McDade, Texas
Grab your tickets, pack your pug, and join us for what promises to be the biggest grumble yet!
Thank you to the Great Pug Grumble team for supporting rescue organizations across Texas and helping more pugs get the care they deserve.
Grab Discounted Tickets!
Use Code: DFWPUGRESCUE25 for a 25% discount on GA tickets!
Get Tickets here: https://www.zilkerbark.com/great-pug-grumble
Pug-O-Ween Kickoff Party (Saturday)
Kick off Pug-O-Ween Weekend with us!
Join us again this year for a ticketed Kick off Party of Halloween fun benefiting DFW Pug Rescue!
Mark your calendars NOW for a full weekend of pugs, costumes, and Halloween fun!
Saturday, October 24
Time: 6 PM - 9 PM
Chicken N Pickle: 4600 Merlot Ave, Grapevine, TX 76051
Come mingle with fellow pug lovers, enjoy games and drawings, and meet some pugs dressed to impress. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos, laughs, and a little friendly competition as we kick off Halloween weekend together.
Contests
Pumpkin Carving and Decorating Contest
Carve it up, paint, bedazzle, add props, lights, or whatever you can dream up to create your pug pumpkin masterpiece. We want to see just how wild your imagination can get! Bring your completed pumpkin on Saturday, Oct. 24 for judging. Judging will take place at 8 PM.
Sign up here by Oct. 22: https://pug-o-ween-2026.raiselysite.com/
New this year: Cupcake Chomp!
Pugs will put their chompers to the test as they race to enjoy their cupcakes and compete for the very first Cupcake Chomp crown!
A huge thank-you to Pug Cake Bakery for helping make this sweet new tradition possible!
Sign up here by Oct. 22: https://pug-o-ween-2026.raiselysite.com/
About the Location
Chicken N Pickle: 4600 Merlot Ave, Grapevine, TX 76051
Chicken N Pickle has ample parking, smooth pathways, a great selection of food and drinks available to purchase, as well as accessible restrooms inside.
Please help us make a great impression by being considerate and picking up after yourself and your dog.
Join the Volunteer Committee
🙌 Want to be part of the magic and help add even more fun, creative ideas to this year’s event? We’ll be building an official planning committee to make Pug-O-Ween 2026 the best one EVER! Sign up to volunteer on our website and note “Pug-O-Ween Planning Committee” in the special skills section: https://www.dfwpugs.com/volunteer-application
Pug-O-Ween Festival
🎃🐾 Join us for the 2026 Pug-O-Ween Festival in the Park
Pug-O-Ween is DFW Pug Rescue’s largest event of the year, bringing hundreds of pug lovers together for an afternoon of costumes, shopping, food, games and fundraising for pugs in need.
We’ll have a huge vendor village with trick or treating, products available for purchase such as original pug art, as well as our incredible vet partners on-site. Please help us make a great impression by being considerate and picking up after yourself and your dog.
Expect:
Pug costumes & contests
Adoptable pugs
Pet & human-related vendors
Silent auction
Raffles
Photo opportunities
Food & treats
Games & activities
Lots and lots of pug fun!
Costume Contest
Get ready for the cutest, most cutthroat, hilariously competitive pug costume contest in Texas. Reminder: this event will be outdoors, but with plenty of shade and water stations, so plan your costumes with the Texas elements in mind.
Sign up here: https://pug-o-ween-2026.raiselysite.com
Location & Parking Information
Heritage Park has restrooms on-site, ample seating, and amenities including natural shade, hybrid Bermuda turf, irrigation, seating areas with water fountains, trash receptacles, and pet waste stations. Throughout the park, there are smooth walking paths available, great for strollers or wheelchairs.
The park has ample lighted and video monitored parking spaces.
Become a Sponsor
Want to put your business or brand directly in front of hundreds of passionate pet lovers, local families and pug enthusiasts? Partner with us for a spooktacular two-day celebration you won't want to miss!
From games and food to local vendors and the cutest, competitive pug costume contest around, this event draws massive crowds every year. Ready to join or want more details?
Email us today at fund-development@dfwpugs.com to grab your vendor spot or sponsor packet before space fills up!
Calling All Vendors
We’re looking for pet- and human-related businesses, artists, makers, services, food vendors and other fun businesses to join us! We’d love to have both people and pug focused vendors!
Returning favorites include La Bandida Street Food and Cat Matchers!
We’ll have a special guest!
We’re also thrilled that author and cartoonist Gemma Correll will be traveling from California to join us! She is a British cartoonist and illustrator who is known for her comics depicting personal, relatable anxieties and pugs. Check her out here: https://www.gemmacorrell.com/
Help Fill Our Silent Auction
We’re looking for donations of products, gift baskets, experiences, services and unique items to help raise funds for our rescue pugs.
For baskets, please include an itemized list of all contents along with the estimated total value of the basket.
Have something to donate? Email us! 📧 fund-development@dfwpugs.com
T-shirt for Pug-O-Ween 2026
Coming soon!
Food & Drink
La Bandida Street Food: Authentic Mexican tacos, nachos, quesadillas, elotes, and more!
More coming soon!
Pug Emergency Preparedness with VEG ER
It's back by popular demand!
🐾 Bring your medical questions for the VEG ER team and join us for another Pug Emergency Preparedness class.
Join DFW Pug Rescue for an educational presentation and lifesaving demonstrations, generously sponsored by VEG ER for Pets!
📅 Wednesday, September 2
🕡 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
📍 CuppaPug Frisco: 8100 Stonebrook Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034
Learn how to recognize the warning signs of common emergencies, what to do while you're on the way to the ER, and when it's time to seek emergency veterinary care.
Snacks and drinks will be provided by VEG ER, so come enjoy refreshments while learning skills that could one day save a life.
Space is limited.
2027 Calendar Contest
📸 We’re Casting Our 2027 Cover Star!
Does your pug (or your entire grumble) have what it takes to be a calendar star? Now’s your chance to show them off while raising money to help pugs in need!
Here’s how it works:
Make a donation and enter your Pug Owner’s Name in the donation form. Then share the contest with friends and family and have them donate using your exact same Pug Owner’s Name. That’s how we’ll track the totals.
The 12 pug owners who raise the most money will earn a featured spot in the DFW Pug Rescue 2027 Calendar with a new photo taken by Shagly.pet!
🏆 Grand Prize Winner
The entry that raises the most money overall will receive:
The Calendar Cover
First choice of calendar month
A professional photo session sponsored by Shagly.pet
A special Pug-O-Ween Basket
And, of course, serious bragging rights as the DFW Pug Rescue Calendar Cover Star!
The next 11 top fundraisers will receive:
A featured spot in the DFW Pug Rescue Calendar
Choice of available month, selected in order of the amount raised
A professional photo session sponsored by Shagly.pet
📸 Out-of-area pugs are welcome!
Not in DFW? No problem! You can still participate and compete for a calendar spot. Out-of-area winners will receive all applicable contest prizes, including the Pug-O-Ween Basket for the top fundraiser, but will not be eligible for the sponsored professional photo session and must provide a photo.
🗓️ Contest Dates
Entries open from August 23 to September 13. Calendar available in November.
Enter here: https://give-usa.keela.co/calendar-contest
Chicken N Pickle Pug Meet Up
We're heading back to Chicken N Pickle in Grand Prairie for another Pug Meet Up!
🗓 Thursday, August 13
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 Chicken N Pickle – Grand Prairie: 2965 State Highway 161, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Bring your pug (or just yourself!) and spend the evening with fellow pug lovers.
🎾 Play on our reserved indoor pickleball court (15-minute sign-up slots available)
🐾 Meet adoptable foster pugs
📸 Professional photos by Mark Shagly for foster pugs
🥤 Order any drink in a Community Cup to automatically donate $1.00 to DFW Pug Rescue.
See you there!
Chicken N Pickle Pug Meet Up
Who's ready for a pug people night out? 🐶🎾
Join us for our first Chicken N Pickle Pug Meet Up!
🗓 Tuesday, August 4
⏰ 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 Chicken N Pickle – Grand Prairie: 2965 State Highway 161, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
We'll have an indoor pickleball court reserved (15-minute sign-up slots available) and plenty of time to catch up with fellow pug lovers.
While you're there, be sure to order your drink in a Community Cup. Through August 15, every Community Cup purchased automatically donates $1 to DFW Pug Rescue - no code or special request needed.
If you're looking to adopt, want to meet our volunteers, or just want to hang out with people who love pugs as much as you do, we'd love to see you there!
Chicken N Pickle Community Cup Campaign
Chicken N Pickle Community
Cup Campaign
Join DFW Pug Rescue at Chicken N Pickle in Grand Prairie and help support pugs in need all while enjoying great food, drinks, and time with fellow pug lovers!
Community Cup Campaign
August 1–15
From August 1-15, every drink you order in a Community Cup at Chicken N Pickle Grand Prairie will automatically donate $1.00 to DFW Pug Rescue. The Community Cup includes a $1.50 upcharge, and no special code or mention is required. Every purchase makes a difference!
Pug Meet Ups
(See separate events for more info!)
Tuesday, August 4 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Thursday, August 13 | 6:00–9:00 PM
📍 Chicken N Pickle – Grand Prairie (NOT the Grapevine location): 2965 State Highway 161, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Bring your pug (or just yourself!) and spend the evening with fellow pug lovers.
We'll have an indoor pickleball court reserved for anyone who wants to play, with 15-minute play slots available through a sign-up sheet.
Prefer just to socialize? Cool with us! Grab a drink in a Community Cup, meet other members of the DFW Pug Rescue community, and enjoy a fun night together.
We'll also have professional photos done by Mark Shagly at the meetup on the 13th only, so foster families are encouraged to bring their foster pugs for updated photos.
Thinking about adopting? Since several foster pugs will be attending, this makes a great opportunity to meet some of our available dogs and chat with their foster families.
We hope to see you there!
Pug CPR & First Aid Training with VEG ER
Pugs are full of personality, love, and… sometimes a little extra vulnerability. Their compact airways, sensitive respiratory systems, and unique anatomy mean that in an emergency, every second matters—and being prepared can make all the difference.
Join us for a hands-on Pug CPR & First Aid Training session hosted by VEG ER for Pets.
VEG ER professionals will walk pug parents through the essential skills every caregiver hopes they’ll never need, but absolutely should know.
This one-hour training is designed specifically with pug parents in mind.
You’ll learn how to:
recognize early signs of distress
respond to choking incidents
perform CPR tailored for small-breed dogs
handle common emergencies like overheating, collapse, seizures, and injury stabilization until veterinary care is available
The goal isn’t to turn you into a vet—it’s to give you the confidence and clarity to act quickly when it matters most.
Snacks will be provided.
Hosted at the beloved CuppaPug, this event brings together community, education, and preparedness in the best possible way, surrounded by people who understand just how deeply we love these little dogs.
The summer heat is here. You don’t want to miss this one.
Event Details:
Date: July 8th
Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: CuppaPug Frisco, 8100 Stonebrook Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034
Space is limited, so reserve your spot and join us for an educational event dedicated to keeping our beloved pugs safe, happy, and healthy.
Tickets are required for all attendees. $15 per ticket. (Special pricing for active DFWPRC fosters!)
Your pugs are welcome to come, but are not required for the class.
Visit to Hollywood Feed (Frisco)
Join DFW Pug Rescue at Hollywood Feed in Frisco for a fun afternoon of pugs, rescue information, and exclusive merchandise.
Stop by our table to learn more about DFW Pug Rescue, meet some of our alumni pugs, and browse our limited-edition 30th Anniversary merchandise while supplies last. Be sure to visit the kissing booth for a pug smooch and some memorable photos.
This event is family-friendly, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly, making it the perfect excuse to stop in, say hello, and support rescue.
Please note: DFW Pug Rescue will be attending as a vendor only. No adoptable pugs will be available at this event.
📍 Hollywood Feed: 5729 Lebanon Rd, Ste 180, Frisco TX 75034
🗓 June 28, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Visit to Hollywood Feed (Fort Worth)
Join DFW Pug Rescue at Hollywood Feed in Fort Worth for a fun afternoon of pugs, rescue information, and exclusive 30th merchandise.
Stop by our table to learn more about DFW Pug Rescue, meet some of our alumni pugs, and browse our limited-edition 30th Anniversary merchandise while supplies last. Be sure to visit the kissing booth for a pug smooch and some memorable photos.
This event is family-friendly, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly, making it the perfect excuse to stop in, say hello, and support rescue.
Please note: DFW Pug Rescue will be attending as a vendor only. No adoptable pugs will be available at this event.
📍 Hollywood Feed: 6200 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76116
🗓 June 27, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Vendor at Moonlit Market
Spend your Saturday evening at The Sound at Cypress Waters and stop by to visit DFW Pug Rescue during the Moonlit Market.
We'll be on-site with rescue information, pug merchandise, and a few of our alumni pugs serving as ambassadors for the rescue. Browse our limited-edition 30th Anniversary merchandise, learn more about our mission, and stop by for a pug smooch at our kissing booth.
While you're there, enjoy local vendors, the waterfront atmosphere, and live music from Little Lies, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band.
Please note: DFW Pug Rescue is attending as a vendor only. No adoptable pugs will be available at this event.
📍 The Sound at Cypress Waters: 3203 Mulberry Hill Road, Coppell, TX 75019
🗓 June 20, 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Vendor at Hollywood Feed (Dallas)
Join DFW Pug Rescue at Hollywood Feed in Dallas for a fun afternoon of pugs, rescue information, and fun, pug merchandise.
Stop by our table to learn more about DFW Pug Rescue, meet some of our alumni pugs, and browse our limited-edition 30th Anniversary merchandise while supplies last. Be sure to visit the kissing booth for a pug smooch and some memorable photos.
This event is family-friendly, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly, making it the perfect excuse to stop in, say hello, and support rescue.
Please note: DFW Pug Rescue will be attending as a vendor only. No adoptable pugs will be available at this event.
📍 Hollywood Feed: 5545 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas, TX
🗓 June 7, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Truck Yard Pug Party
🐾 Pug Party at Truck Yard Fort Worth! 🐾
Grab your pug and join us for a laid-back afternoon at Truck Yard Fort Worth on May 31 from 11AM–2PM.
This casual pug hangout is the perfect chance to connect with fellow pug lovers, enjoy lunch, and let the pups socialize. We'll be gathering under the Run Forrest Run Pavilion for an outdoor, family-friendly event that's open to all dogs.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and we'll have our DFW Pug Rescue merchandise table set up, so be sure to stop by and say hello while you're there.
If you’re looking for a fun outing with your pup, we'd love to see you there!
Vendor at Dallas Arts & Music Festival
🐾 We'll be at the Downtown Dallas Arts & Music Festival! 🐾
If you're exploring the Downtown Dallas Arts & Music Festival on May 24, be sure to stop by our booth.
This free, family-friendly, and pet-friendly outdoor festival celebrates the incredible art, music, and cultural diversity of the Dallas-Fort Worth community.
While you're enjoying live entertainment, local artists, and all the festivities, swing by to say hello, shop our merchandise, and learn more about our rescue and the pugs we serve.
We'd love to see you there!
DFW Pug Rescue will be there as a vendor only, and will not have pugs up for adoption at this event.
Pugs Unleashed Happy Hour & Hangout
Pugs Unleashed Happy Hour & Hangout at Rusty Nickel Icehouse
Join us for Pugs Unleashed at Rusty Nickel Icehouse on May 23, 2026 from 12:00 PM–3:00 PM for a fun, dog-friendly afternoon built for pugs, people, and community connection.
This is a free, family-friendly event with proceeds benefiting our rescue, so bring your pug, bring your friends, and come enjoy a relaxed weekend outing made just for dog lovers.
We’ll have a fully activated space designed for both comfort and play, including a fenced-off off-leash area where dogs can safely roam and socialize. The event space is both indoors and outdoors, with TVs, seating areas, and easy access to bar service through garage windows opened just for the event.
Expect a great lineup of local partners and vendors, including:
Big Dawgs Co food truck serving up hot dogs, with $1 donated from every hot dog sold
Pacifico Beer will be $2, and they are offering custom dog tags for free during the event
Rusty Nickel Icehouse contributing 10% of bar sales from the turf-area bar, plus an additional $150 donation in support of the rescue
This is a laid-back, come-as-you-are kind of afternoon, perfect for hanging out with your pug, meeting other dog lovers, and supporting rescue efforts in a fun and meaningful way.
See you there!
Woofgang Bakery Popup
🐾 We’re popping up at Woofgang Bakery & Grooming! 🐾
If you're stopping by the Woofgang Bakery Popup on May 17 from 11AM–2PM, be sure to swing by our booth. We'll have DFW Pug Rescue merchandise available, a fun kissing booth, and a cute photo opportunity for you and your pup.
This indoor event is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and open to all breeds, making it the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon with fellow dog lovers. Stop by, say hello, and support rescue while you're there!
DFW Pug Rescue will not have pugs up for adoption at this event.
Vendor at Midnight Market
Swing by the Midnight Market for an evening of shopping, community, and lakeside vibes.
We’ll be there as a vendor alongside other small businesses and makers. If you’re attending the market, swing by our booth to say hello, shop our merchandise, and learn more about our rescue work and how we support pugs in need.
DFW Pug Rescue will be there as a vendor only, and will not have pugs up for adoption at this event.
Bluegrass PugFest
We’re Kentucky bound for pug-filled fun at Bluegrass PugFest 2026!!
This is the largest pug event in North America, happening May 16-17, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. This weekend brings together pug lovers from across the country for races, costume contests, vendors, rescue organizations (that’s us!), and plenty of pug-filled fun, all while supporting pug rescues nationwide.
A few volunteers will be making the trip to Kentucky and would love for you to stop by our booth!
Come say hello, shop our merchandise, and learn more about our rescue and the work we do to help pugs in need.
For more details about the event, visit: https://bluegrasspugfest.org/
North Texas Gives to Animals
This event runs May 14-31 and is one of the most important fundraising periods of the year for organizations like ours. And giving EARLY matters!
🚨 Early Donations are Matched!
Donations are matched dollar-for-dollar up to $100 per donor, per organization, until the shared $100,000 match fund is depleted. Fund matching is provided by the Gigi Gartner Charitable Foundation Fund and Communities Foundation of Texas.
What that means in practice is simple: the timing of your donation directly affects its impact. Once the match pool is exhausted, donations are no longer doubled.
You MUST donate through the link below for your donation to be matched!
Make sure to download the calendar invite so you don’t miss it!
🐾 Our History
Founded in 1996, DFW Pug Rescue, Inc. is one of the largest pug rescue organizations in the United States having rescued and placed over 7,500 huggable, squeezable, absolutely adorable pugs. In March 2026, we proudly celebrated 30 years of rescue!
For three decades, one thing has remained true: we can only keep going because of generous donors like you:
DFW Pug Rescue rescues all purebred and mixed pugs regardless of age or medical condition. No Pug Left Behind.
💸 Every dollar helps save a life
At DFW Pug Rescue, our biggest expense isn’t food or shelter, it’s medical care. From basic exams to life-saving surgeries, every pug that comes through our doors needs and deserves a chance to heal.
Your donation isn’t just support. It’s treatment, relief, and a second chance.
This North Texas Gives to Animals Day, you can help us continue our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pugs in need, no matter their age, condition, or cost.
Our goal is to raise $10,000 during the North Texas Gives to Animals campaign running May 14-31.
🩺 What Your Donation Covers
$20 = One month of flea and tick prevention for one pug
$25 = One day of boarding for one pug
$35 = Heartworm prevention for one pug for one month
$57 = Basic veterinary exam
$270 = Exam + vaccinations
$300 = Spay or neuter
$900 = Prescription food for one pug for one month
$2,500 = Major surgery (like eye removal or hip repair)
In 2025, we spent between $40,000 to $45,000 every month on veterinary care. Over 94% of all donations go straight to veterinary care.
🐶 Why It Matters
We rescue every pug, no matter how sick, old, or injured. From mange to mammary tumors, from blindness to broken hips… if a pug needs help, we're there.
Each pug receives full medical care, a safe foster home, and a second chance. 92% of the pugs we rescue find their perfect forever home every year, but we can’t do it without you!
💯 Our Numbers
In 2026, DFW Pug Rescue expects to serve over 250 pugs, maintain 110+ foster and respite homes with around 90-120 pugs in our rescue at all times; and place 150+ dogs in approved adoptive homes.
Each pug entering our care is transported to a veterinary care center in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Their conditions at intake vary and may include a positive heartworm test, mammary tumors, hernias, malnutrition, demodex mange, knee and hip dysplasia, ear infections, and blindness.
The average expenses associated with the treatment, medication, and follow-up care of these rescued pugs’ exceeds $200,000, and it continues to rise.
In March and April 2026 alone, DFW Pug Rescue has taken in:
19 pugs that were heartworm positive, requiring treatment costing $1,200 each
4 pugs needed to have surgery to remove an eyeball
1 pug with severe kidney disease who was placed in hospice care
10 Seniors with 3 being HW+ and all requiring more vetting and prescriptions that normal
These 2 months alone have brought in nearly 100 pugs and averaged $47,800 in vet bills per month! These recent months have depleted our emergency funds and will impact our ability to pay for regular medical care for our foster pugs
Your support right now helps ensure we never have to say no to a pug in need.
💛 Be Their Lifeline
Pugs are resilient, loving, and full of life, even after facing the toughest medical challenges.
Because of you, they get the chance to heal, to love, and to be loved again.
Donate this North Texas Giving Day and help us say: No Pug Left Behind.
Give Now!
More Ways To Help
Another way to help is to open your heart and home to a pug in need by becoming a foster. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to help. Learn more about fostering and find the application here: https://www.dfwpugs.com/become-a-foster
Want to make an even bigger impact? Save pugs in need through recurring monthly donations by becoming a Pug Warrior. Learn more here: https://www.dfwpugs.com/pug-warrior-program
Vendor at Barks & Brews
Swing by our booth at Barks & Brews, hosted by Duck Team 6.
Enjoy Tupps Brewery McKinney’s craft beer, live music, learn about DFW Pug Rescue and snag some of our exclusive 30th Anniversary merch, and hang out with plenty of adorable pups.
DFW Pug Rescue will be there as a vendor only, and will not have pugs up for adoption at this event.
Vendor at Sound of Hope 5K Run & Spring Festival
Join us at The Sound of Hope 5K Run & Spring Festival!
DFW Pug Rescue will be set up as a vendor during this fun, family-friendly community event. Stop by our booth to meet our volunteers, learn more about our mission, and find out how you can support pugs in need through fostering, adopting, volunteering, or donating.
The festival is free to attend and will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including a 5K run, live music, food and drinks, kids arts and crafts, artisan vendors, pony rides, a photo booth, and games. The event takes place outdoors and is kid-, family-, and dog-friendly, making it a great way to spend a spring morning with the community.
Please note: Our pugs will not be available for adoption at this event, but we’re always happy to answer questions about the adoption process and how you can get involved with DFW Pug Rescue. Stop by and say hello! 🐾
Singles-Only Pug Yoga
Join Us For An Exclusive Singles-Only Pug Yoga Class In Frisco, Tx!
➡️ The event will begin with an introduction from host, local Women-Owned Matchmaking and Coaching Business Fern Connections, and our partners CuppaPug Frisco, and DFW Pug Rescue.
↪️ Following the introduction, we will begin the yoga portion of our event. Following the yoga flow, you will have an opportunity to mix and mingle with the other participants and the pugs*!
*The pugs will be present the whole time, don’t worry 🩷
Spots are limited so don’t miss your chance to spend your Sunday in this room full of cuties!
What Makes Fern Connections Different?
As a Certified Matchmaker and Date & Relationship Coach Daphney Poyser and her team have over five years of experience in helping wonderful singles from all across North America find their person, and we are committed to doing the same for you, here, in Dallas, TX!
In addition to working with a professional dating expert you will…
♥️ Be provided the opportunity to be pre-matched prior to the event to help ensure that you are being introduced to the individuals most compatible to you at the event.
💭 Receive real-time advice on how to put your best self forward when it comes to dating that you can utilize during your time at the event and beyond.
👥Have the opportunity to be a part of an amazing group of wonderful, like-minded individuals who are committed to dating differently in 2026!
What is pre-matchmaking?
Pre-matchmaking is a unique matchmaking service formulated by Fern Connections that will help to identify your potential compatibility with other participants based on your answers to a series of relationship-based questions and partner preferences. Once you purchase tickets to the event, we will send you your pre-matchmaking form to fill out!
Tickets
Buy Tickets through Fern Connections, here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rescue-pug-yoga-at-cuppapug-for-singles-25-45-frisco-tx-tickets-1985175598655?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true
P.S. Bring a friend with you to save more via our 2-for-1 tickets!
Vendor at Pints and Pups
Come see us at Pints and Pups!
We’ll be set up as a vendor at this fun, dog-friendly community event hosted at Rodeo Cold. Stop by the DFW Pug Rescue booth to say hello, meet some of our volunteers, and learn more about our mission and how you can support pugs in need.
This kid-friendly event will take place outdoors on Rodeo Cold’s large patio and grassy back area, with plenty of space for dogs and people to hang out and enjoy the afternoon. Several local rescues and shelters will be participating, making it a great opportunity to connect with the rescue community.
Please note: Our pugs will not be available for adoption at this event, but we’re always happy to talk with you about fostering, adopting, volunteering, or other ways to get involved. Stop by and say hi! 🐾
Vendor at Adopt-a-Pet Pit Stop
Adopt-a-Pet Pit Stop (Vendor)
DFW Pug Rescue will be a vendor at the DFW Car and Toy Museum’s 1st Anniversary celebration and pet adoption event. The event will take place in the front parking lot and will feature adoptable pets (NOT our pugs), pet vendors, and free hotdogs for guests.
DFW Pug Rescue will be there as a vendor only, and will not have pugs up for adoption at this event.
Stop by our booth to say hello and shop some of our merch while enjoying the event.
This is a free, family-friendly outdoor event, and friendly dogs are welcome.
Vendor at SPCA Strut Your Mutt
We’re headed to SPCA Strut Your Mutt! 🐾✨
Swing by DFW Pug Rescue inside the Bow Wow Bazaar. We’ll have rescue merch for sale and lots of pug love to share.
It’s a fun, feel-good morning supporting the SPCA of Texas! Bring the kids, bring your pups (all dogs are welcome!), and come strut with us!
Head over to SPCA Texas to learn more about the event!: https://spca.org/
30th Anniversary Celebration
Join DFW Pug Rescue in celebrating our 30th Anniversary & Annual Pug Derby!
Not many rescues make it to 30 years and we do not take a single day for granted. We are still here because of YOU.
We’d love to invite all of you - our past adopters, pug community, supporters, donors, volunteers, fosters, friends, and of course, your pugs - to join us for this special milestone! This family-friendly event is open to all dog lovers. All dogs are welcome (pugs especially, of course!).
🏁 Pug Derby Races
We’ll race in four heats, followed by a championship round to determine the fastest pug of the day. You must have a ticket to participate in the races!
Race Schedule:
Heat 1: 11:25 AM — Seniors (10+ years) only
Heat 2: 11:40 PM
Heat 3: 12:00 PM
Heat 4: 12:40 PM
Heat 5: 1:00 PM
Final Heat: 1:30 PM — Top 3 from each heat compete for the title (except seniors)
👉 Pug Race Sign-Up Form: (waitlist only)
https://form-usa.keela.co/pug-derby-sign-up
👒 Derby Dressed (Best Dressed)
Guests will receive stickers to vote for their favorite outfits. Give your sticker to the person or pug whose outfit you like best. The guests with the most stickers will be put to a crowd vote to choose the final winner! You must have a ticket to participate or win the contest.
Derby Dressed will be award after Heat 5 of the pug races (~1:15 PM).
🎉 30th Anniversary Features
Alumni Wall: Celebrating all adopted DFWPR pugs
Memoriam Wall: Honoring adopted pugs who have crossed the rainbow bridge
Please email pug photos with names and “Alumni” or “In Memoriam” labeled to:
funddevelopment@dfwpugs.com
Guests can enjoy several fun, free activities throughout the event, including a Cupcake Walk, magic tricks performed by walking magician, Noah Ivy, and a variety of local vendors where you can browse, shop, and pick up free samples. These activities are open to all attendees and do not require a ticket to participate.
We encourage all past adopters to attend and bring their pugs to help us celebrate 30 years of DFW Pug Rescue.
🎟️ Tickets
Adults (13+): $15
Kids (12 & under): $10
Children (3 & under): Free
Schedule
Event Start: 11:00 AM
The Anniversary Dashers: 11:10 AM
Derby Heat 1: 11:25 AM (Seniors 10+ only)
Derby Heat 2: 11:40 PM
Derby Heat 3: 12:00 PM
Alumni Group Picture: 12:20 PM
Derby Heat 4: 12:40 PM
Derby Heat 5: 1:00 PM
Derby Dressed Award: after Heat 5 (~1:15 PM)
Derby Final Heat: 1:30 PM (Top 3 of each heat excluding seniors)
Event ends: 2:00 PM
Location and Parking Information
Chicken N Pickle in Grapevine has ample parking, smooth pathways, a great selection of food and drinks available to purchase, as well as accessible restrooms inside. This is an outdoor-friendly event with plenty of space for leashed dogs to spread out and have fun. Indoor seating is available at the venue; however, dogs are not permitted inside. Water stations will be provided outside for pets. Please help us make a great impression by being considerate and picking up after yourself and your dog.
Sponsor Opportunity
To sign up to sponsor this event, please click here: https://give-usa.keela.co/dfw-pug-rescue-30th-anniversary-celebration-sponsors
Sponsor Levels & Benefits
TITLE Sponsor ($1,500+)
Name placement above event title (e.g., "[Your Company] presents...)
Logo placement DFWPRC website and on all event materials
Mention on social media to our 25K+ followers and in marketing emails
Stage welcome and speaking opportunity
Free vendor space
5 complimentary tickets
Permission to use event media and DFWPRC logo in your marketing/PR
________________________________________
GOLD Sponsor ($500)
Mention on social media posts to our 25k+ followers and in marketing emails
Shoutout during event announcements
Free vendor space
2 complimentary tickets
Listing on our website
Permission to use event media and DFWPRC logo in your marketing/PR
________________________________________
FRIENDS Sponsor ($100)
Listing on our website
Mention on social media posts to our 25k+ followers and in marketing emails
________________________________________
In-Kind Sponsor (Donate goods/services instead of money)
Recognition based on donation value (can be assigned to a tier)
May receive signage at donation station or program acknowledgment
Mention on social media posts to our 25k+ followers and in marketing emails
Vendors Wanted!
We only have a few available spots for Vendors. Please email funddevelopment@dfwpugs.com to express interest!
2025 Pug Derby Snapshots
Shamrock Social & Pug Crawl
🍀🐾 Shamrock Social at Epic Central 🐾🍀
Mark your calendars for March 14 from 2-6PM at Epic Central in Grand Prairie! We’re teaming up for a high-energy St. Paddy’s celebration packed with dogs, drinks, and shamrock vibes. ☘️
DFW Pug Rescue will take the spotlight from 3-4PM with the Pug Crawl and the Pug Costume Contest.
Costume entries are $20, limited to 10 spots, and sign-ups will be in-person at the event. Think shamrock tutus, leprechaun hats, and full Irish flair! The winner will walk away with a Raising Cane’s gift basket!
The full event runs all afternoon with a bar crawl, vendors, giveaways, outdoor fun, and kid-friendly activities. We’ll have our booth set up with merch and rescue info, so come shop, say hi, and celebrate with us.
📅 March 14, 2026
⏰ 2PM–6PM
📍 Epic Central: 2971 S SH 161 Frontage Rd, Grand Prairie, TX
DFW Pug Rescue receives 5% of ticket sales with use of this link ONLY: http://eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=24729&ac=LUCKYPUG
Grab your pups, wear your green, and we’ll see you for the Pug Crawl! 💚🐶
Vendor at North Texas Irish Festival
We’re excited to share that DFW Pug Rescue will be a vendor at the North Texas Irish Festival at Fair Park in Dallas! ☘️🐾
Join us:
📅 March 7 | 10AM–6PM
📅 March 8 | 1PM–6PM
📍 Fair Park: 3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
We’ll be in the Animal Building (open Saturday & Sunday only!) sharing information about rescue, our upcoming events, volunteer needs, and raffling off a gift basket ($1 per ticket). This will be a fun 3-day festival celebrating all things Irish.
Stop by, say hi, and support pugs in need!
Find more event info on the main website: https://www.ntif.org/
Pug Yoga
Stretch, Smile & Snuggle: It’s Pug Yoga Time!
Get ready for the cutest workout of your life! Join us at CuppaPug for a special yoga session led by instructor Allison, where perfecting your pose takes a backseat to pug snuggles.
This all-levels class is designed for everyone, even you are a seasoned yogi or can’t touch your toes. Expect a beginner-friendly flow, lots of laughs, and plenty of pugs wandering, cuddling, and supervising your practice.
What to Expect:
A relaxing, beginner-friendly yoga flow
Pugs roaming, snuggling, and perfecting their "downward dog"
Endless photo ops and laughter
A heartwarming start to your weekend
Why This Ticket Matters:
This event is a partnership with DFW Pug Rescue, and your participation makes a direct impact.
100% Volunteer Run: DFW Pug Rescue is an all-volunteer organization. No humans collect a paycheck, ensuring your contribution goes exactly where it's needed.
Direct Support: Veterinary bills for the rescue can exceed $50,000 a month. Every dollar raised from this class helps cover medical costs to get rescue pugs healthy and adopted.
Need to Know:
When: The first Saturday of every month.
Bring: Please bring your own yoga mat and a water bottle.
Invite: Bring a friend (and your love for dogs!).
Space is limited to ensure plenty of pug-to-human interaction, so grab your spot today!
Pug Hug and Frenchie Kisses Meetup
Pugs + Frenchies play date! 🐾
Join DFW Pug Rescue and DFW Frenchie Rescue for an off leash dog park meetup with plenty of room to roam, kid friendly vibes, photo ops, and info from both rescues.
Bring water for your pups and don’t miss the group photo at 4:30 PM! 📸
Pug-A-Gram Valentine Delivery
Pug-A-Grams are BACK and officially open for Valentine’s ordering!
Surprise someone special with a delivery full of pug love, treats, and smiles—all while supporting DFW Pug Rescue.
This year’s Pug-A-Gram options include:
Pug Kisses & Cupcake Wishes – A box of cupcakes: $50
Sit, Stay, Snack – A standard basket full of pug fun and treats: $65
Cozy Night In – Pug-themed blanket, tumbler, bonus treats, and cozy goodies: $100
Pug-Fect Pairings – Bottle of wine, pug wine glass, and premium treats: $125
All Pug-A-Grams come perfectly packaged with a festive ribbon, heart balloon, and a personalized message card—ready to delight the moment they arrive!
Delivery Dates
Delivery Dates Available: February 11, 13, 14, or 15th
Delivery Time Slots: Between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM
Send love to a sweetheart, friend, family member, or yourself! A Pug-A-Gram is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day and help pugs in need at the same time.
Ordering
Order now before spots fill up!
Thank you for supporting DFW Pug Rescue and helping us spread pug love this Valentine’s season!
Pug-A-Gram Sponsorship Opportunity
DFW Pug Rescue is excited to offer unique sponsorship opportunities throughout 2026, including this year’s Pug-A-Grams. If you’d like to be part of our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome pugs in need across the DFW area, please fill out the form in the link below.
Galentine's Popup
Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your besties and swing by Pegasus Plaza on February 13 between 11 AM–2 PM for a pop up full of fun, freebies, and sweet surprises!
Fall in love with Downtown Dallas while you enjoy:
A FREE rose 🌹
A free photo booth to capture the memories
Unique pop up vendors and local finds
A doggie kissing booth with the adorable pups from DFW Pug Rescue 🐶💋
Bring your friends, treat yourselves, and make it a Galentine’s date in the heart of downtown Dallas. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! 💖