Important Dates

Monday, March 2, 2026: 

This will officially mark the beginning of the six-week fundraising competition, and the donation buttons will be activated.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026: 

Make plans to attend this one-hour virtual Pet of the Year kick-off at 10am PT/1pm ET. We’ll cover how the six-week campaign works, share outreach tips, and hear from past candidates who will offer insights from their own experience. Click here to register. The session will be recorded and shared afterward.

Monday, March 30, 2026: 

All candidates need to mail in any checks, money orders, or sponsorship forms to ensure money is credited toward their fundraising efforts.

Saturday, April 11, 2026:

The leaderboards will be removed from the website for the remaining 48 hours, leaving the winner a surprise.

Monday, April 13, 2026:

Fundraising Deadline: All online donations, mailed donations, and signed sponsorship commitments received by 11:59 p.m. CT will be tallied and credited toward each pet candidate's fundraising totals. Please review the Turn in Funds page for the mailing address.

Tuesday, April 14, 2026:

All pet candidates, committee members, family, and friends are invited to join the virtual Spotlight Awards at 5pm PT/8pm ET as we crown the 2026 Pet Partners Pet of the Year. Every candidate will be recognized for their incredible fundraising efforts and dedication to the human-animal bond. Click here to register. The session will be recorded and added to our YouTube channel.