Bark in the Park back for its fourth year
Expands mission to help local pet owners
Photo Courtesy of BARK IN THE PARK Trending
PORT ROYAL -- Four years ago, Beth and Darren Weaver, of Milroy, hoped they could create a successful community event for animal lovers. They never imagined it would grow into one of the region’s most popular celebrations for pets and their owners.
Today, Bark in the Park is preparing for its fourth annual event, bringing a new location, a carnival theme and a new charitable mission aimed at helping local families keep their beloved pets at home during times of financial hardship.
“When we started this event, we were just truly hoping to have it be successful,” Beth Weaver said. “We had no clue how much it would take off and become so big. Here we are on year number four.”
The event will be held at the Port Royal Lions Club Park, marking a change from previous years. Organizers expect another strong turnout as families, pet owners and animal lovers gather for a day filled with games, activities, vendors and canine-centered entertainment.
While Bark in the Park has always been about celebrating the bond between people and their pets, this year’s event also shines a spotlight on a growing need in the community.
For the first time, proceeds will benefit Weaver’s Paws of Plenty Pet Pantry, a non-profit organization founded by Beth and Darren Weaver. The pet pantry was created to serve residents throughout Mifflin and Juniata counties who may be struggling to afford food and supplies for their animals.
The idea emerged from the couple’s first-hand observations of the challenges facing animal shelters and rescue organizations.
“It’s extremely sad that there are just so many rescues that are even close in proximity to each other, yet they fill up so fast,” Beth Weaver said.
Rather than focusing solely on helping animals after they enter shelters, the Weavers hope to address the circumstances that often lead to surrenders in the first place.
“We want the pantry to help people struggling financially not have to decide between whether they eat or their pet eats,” Beth Weaver added. “We want to provide free food and supplies to prevent animal surrenders to shelters, rehoming and dumping during economic hardships.”
The mission reflects a growing recognition among animal welfare advocates that keeping pets with the families who love them can often be the best solution for both people and animals. By offering assistance before a crisis leads to a shelter surrender, organizers hope to reduce pressure on already crowded rescue organizations while providing support to local residents.
That charitable purpose serves as the foundation of the event, but attendees will find plenty of opportunities for fun throughout the day.
This year’s carnival theme introduces a variety of new attractions designed specifically for four-legged guests.
Among the highlights is a dog-friendly ball pit where pups can play and burn off energy. Musical Mutts, a canine-inspired take on the classic party game, will give dogs and owners a chance to compete together. There will also be a “Pick Up Ducks” activity that allows dogs to win prizes while testing their skills and curiosity.
Another unique feature is nose-print art, where pet owners can create keepsakes using their dog’s nose print as a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork.
Organizers are especially excited about several new attractions making their debut this year.
A pup cup cart, modeled after a traditional ice cream cart, will offer special treats for canine visitors. Dogs can also climb aboard a barrel train for rides around the park, an activity expected to be a favorite among both pets and spectators.
“There is so much more going on that we hope you and your furry friend can come out and enjoy the day with us,” Weaver said.
Beyond the activities, Bark in the Park has developed a reputation as a gathering place for community members who share a love of animals. Vendors will be set up throughout the park, offering products, services and information for pet owners and families.
However, organizers stress that attendees do not need to own a dog to enjoy the festivities.
“You don’t have to have a dog to come to this event,” Weaver said. “You can bring a chair and just sit and pet dogs all day.”
In fact, she said, there are regular attendees who do exactly that each year.
The welcoming atmosphere has become one of the event’s defining characteristics. Some visitors arrive with energetic puppies or senior companions, while others simply enjoy spending time around animals and meeting fellow dog lovers. The event has evolved into a community celebration that extends beyond pet ownership.
As Bark in the Park enters its fourth year, Weaver remains grateful for the support that has fueled its growth and allowed it to expand its mission.
What began as a simple idea has become an annual tradition that combines entertainment, community engagement and animal welfare. The success of previous events has provided the confidence to grow, while the launch of Weaver’s Paws of Plenty Pet Pantry gives organizers an opportunity to make an even greater impact throughout the year.
For the Weavers, Bark in the Park is ultimately about strengthening the bond between people and their pets while ensuring families have the resources they need to keep those relationships intact.
The event will be held rain or shine at the Port Royal Lions Club Park. Organizers remind attendees that all dogs must be up to date on their rabies vaccinations and remain on a leash at all times.
Whether visitors arrive with a pampered purebred, a beloved rescue or simply a lawn chair and a love of dogs, organizers hope they leave with happy memories and the satisfaction of supporting a cause dedicated to helping pets and the people who care for them.