Bark in the Park is at Tower Grove Park! Race and Walk Check-in will be at the Turkish Pavilion, located just off the main roundabout off Tower Grove Avenue between Magnolia and Arsenal. Parking is available on the Park's Main Drive, Arsenal Street and Magnolia Avenue. Please note: The entrance to the park from Magnolia Ave. will be closed to vehicle traffic on Saturday for the Tower Grove Farmer's Market. Please use the Arsenal St. entrance or the Kingshighway entrance.Click here for a map.
Why register?
All of the proceeds from Bark in the Park benefit the Humane Society of Missouri's Animal Cruelty Task Force, dedicated to investigating, healing and preventing animal abuse. Your registration fee and additional funds raised go directly to helping dogs, cats, critters, horses, and many other pets who get their second chance at HSMO.
What activities will be at Bark in the Park?
In addition to the 5K race and the One-Mile Walk for Animals, you and your pooch can enjoy high-flying fun with the Purina Incredible Dog Team, or test your pup's skill on the doggie agility course! We'll have PAWsome animal-centric vendors and plenty of kid-friendly activities, plus food trucks and a beer garden.
Who can participate in the 5K race?
People of all ages are welcome to participate in this professionally-managed, chip-timed race.
All participants, including children 12 and under, must register for the 5K to receive a timing bib and join the race.
Run, jog or walk 3.2 miles with or without your pooch! Discuss with your veterinarian whether your dog is in adequate physical condition for the 5K event!
NO RETRACTABLE LEASHES
I don't want to run in the 5K or join the Walk--do I still have to register?
All attendees must register for Bark in the Park, whether or not they participate in the 5K or One-Mile Fun Walk. There are plenty of other activities for you to enjoy, and all registration fees benefit the animals in our care!
When is packet pick-up for the 5K?
Race packet pick-up (5K participants only) is Friday, May 17 at the Humane Society of Missouri's Macklind Ave. Headquarters, 1201 Macklind Ave., 63110 from 12pm-6pm. You may also pick up your packet on event day at Race Check-in beginning at 8am. Please report to the Turkish Pavilion.
What if I don't have a dog?
No furry friend? No problem! Join us at Bark in the Park and get lots of lovin' from other pooches in attendance. It's all for a great cause!
Do I have to raise extra money to attend Bark in the Park?
Raising money above and beyond the requested registration fee means more funding for animals in need! However, additional fundraising is not a requirement to attend the event.
What is a Team and how do I join?
Grab your friends, family, co-workers and other animal lovers and form a Team to Raise Dollars for Dogs and receive recognition for your efforts! Set a fundraising goal--remember, each dollar your pack raises helps dogs and other animals in HSMO shelters! Then, celebrate your fundraising efforts as a team at Bark in the Park on May 18!
How do my friends and family make donations in my name (or my Team name) online?
It's easy! Just send them to www.hsmo.org/bark and have them click on the Donate to a Team or Individual link. They can then search for your name and make a secure donation online, that once processed, will be reflected in your individual total.
Does my dog need to show proof of being up-to-date on all of their vaccines to come to Bark in the Park?
We ask that all dogs be up-to-date on all of their vaccines, but we will not be requiring proof.
Can my new puppy come to Bark in the Park?
We recommend that puppies younger than six months wait a year to attend Bark in the Park. The stress of the event and the company of so many other dogs may be too much for your little guy or gal.
What method of payment will you accept at the event?
We will accept cash, checks, debit and credit cards for all purchases at Bark in the Park, although some independent vendors may accept different payment methods.
How can I volunteer at Bark in the Park?
We accept volunteers for both day-of-event roles, as well as pre-event setup in the days before Bark in the Park. Whether you volunteer during the actual event or in the days leading up to it, we ask that you do not bring your personal pets. Volunteer opportunities for the 2024 event will be announced soon.
Rain or shine?
Yes! We will make the best effort to have Bark in the Park, even if it is raining! In the event of severe weather, the event may be postponed or called early, depending on the timing of the storms. But Bark in the Park will proceed if it's just raining and there is no lightning nearby!
For additional questions, please email bark@hsmo.org.