Does your dog stand out from the rest of the pack? Is your feline friend known for their amazing cat-itude? Perhaps your horse is ready to gallop into a new role? We have more than 100 pets competing in a six-week fundraising competition for the title of the 2026 Pet Partners Pet of the Year!

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This exciting fundraising competition is a perfect way to celebrate your best friend while supporting a great cause! Funds raised by pet candidates (with help from their favorite humans) will support the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program. This amazing program brings unconditional love, happiness, and healing to millions of seniors, patients, veterans, and children in need all around the world each year.

The national title of Pet Partners Pet of the Year is awarded to the pet whose fundraising team raises the most funds during the six-week competition. The winner will be crowned at the close of the competition and awarded thousands of dollars in prizes for their efforts.

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.

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, as well as mailed donations and signed sponsorship commitments received by 11:59 p.m. CT, will be tallied and credited towards 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 will be invited to join the virtual celebration as we crown the 2026 Pet Partners Pet of the Year. All candidates will be recognized for their incredible fundraising efforts and dedication to the human-animal bond.

Pet Partners Pet of the Year 2026

Pet Partners Pet of the Year 2026