Yes, There’s Construction — But You Can Still Easily Get to the Lancaster Fairgrounds for Pet Rock Fest 2025!

LANCASTER, Mass. — Don’t let a little roadwork ruffle your fur — Pet Rock Fest is still on for Sunday, Oct. 5, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Lancaster Fairgrounds, and it’s easy to get here.

We’ve heard from some of our vendors and festival-goers who are worried about the Route 117 detour, but rest assured: we’ve spoken directly with Lancaster Police and MassDOT, and they’ve assured us that access to the fairgrounds will remain open.

Here’s what you need to know: Yes, there’s construction work happening near the bridge section of Route 117, but the Lancaster Fairgrounds (318 Seven Bridge Road) is just a short distance beyond the cones. If you see signs that say “Local Traffic Only,” that means you’re in the clear to continue—because you are local traffic. Plus, officials say that there will be detail directing traffic during the time of our festival.

Follow your GPS to:📍 Bolton Fairgrounds / 318 Seven Bridge Road, Lancaster, MA 01523

Unless someone specifically tells you to stop, you’re good to go. There will be signage and detail officers helping direct vehicles as needed, and our team of volunteers tested the route today with zero problems.

So keep those tails wagging and your wheels rolling — you’ll have no trouble reaching Pet Rock Fest! We can’t wait to see you (and your furry friends) for a day of music, vendors, rescues, food and fun.

Pet Rock Fest announces 2025 Juno Hero Awards

September 30, 2025 - Each year, Pet Rock Fest honors individuals whose actions embody compassion, courage, and a commitment to protecting animals. Renamed in memory of Juno, a beloved rescue dog and tireless symbol of advocacy, the Juno Hero Awards shine a spotlight on people who go above and beyond to make a difference for animals in our communities.

This year’s honorees reflect the many ways that advocacy and rescue take shape — from the halls of the State House, where policy can safeguard animal welfare on a broad scale, to the heart-stopping moments when first responders act decisively to save a life in danger.

Together, their work reminds us that protecting animals is a responsibility that belongs to all of us, and that even a single act of bravery or a single piece of legislation can ripple outward, improving countless lives.

Meet the Animal Juno Hero Award recipients

Senator Michael O. Moore: Champion for Animals, Including Wildlife

When it comes to protecting animals in Massachusetts, Senator Michael O. Moore has consistently been at the center of the effort. Representing the Second Worcester District since 2009, Moore has built a reputation not only as a dedicated public servant but also as a steadfast advocate for animal welfare and wildlife conservation.

Over the years, Moore has partnered closely with organizations including MSPCA-Angell, the Animal Rescue League of Boston, the Humane Society of Massachusetts, and the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Together, they have helped shape legislation that strengthens protections for pets and wildlife alike. In 2022, Moore guided Massachusetts into the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, making it harder for illegal hunters to escape accountability. That same year, he helped establish a pilot program studying safe highway crossings for animals, a project aimed at reducing collisions and preserving habitats.

Moore has also brought attention to the welfare of companion animals in everyday life. He introduced legislation allowing courts to consider the well-being of pets in custody cases, recognizing that animals are more than property—they are family. His advocacy extends to pushing for a ban on pet ownership by convicted abusers, as well as fighting to restrict the use of toxic rodenticides that can harm wildlife, pets, and even children.

Through this work, Senator Moore has shown how policy can be a powerful tool for compassion. His commitment to the safety and dignity of animals is the reason Pet Rock Festival is proud to honor him as a 2025 recipient of the Juno Hero Award.

Brookfield Fire Department: A Rescue to Remember

For Kris and Paul Casucci, July 4 began with panic. Their nine-month-old Great Pyrenees puppy, Fearghus—known affectionately as Fergie—had vanished. After searching frantically around their property, Kris heard faint cries in the woods. The sound seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere, warped by the trees and brush. Only after pushing through the undergrowth did they discover the truth: Fergie had fallen into an old, hidden well.

At nearly 100 pounds, Fergie was far too heavy to lift out without help. That’s when the Brookfield Fire Department answered the call. Assistant Chief Herb Chaffee, firefighter Phillip Chaffee, and firefighter Cayla Hurley quickly devised a plan. Phillip climbed down a ladder into the well, carefully securing Fergie with a strap while Hurley and the assistant chief stood above, guiding and pulling as Phillip pushed from below.

It was a moment of teamwork and calm under pressure, the kind of quiet heroism first responders perform every day. For the Casuccis, though, it was deeply personal. Hurley, who also cares for the family’s pets when they travel, was a familiar face to Fergie. Even in his frightening predicament, the puppy wagged his tail in recognition when he saw her.

Thanks to the swift action of the Brookfield Fire Department, Fergie emerged shaken but unharmed, with no lasting injuries. The well has since been covered, but the Casuccis will never forget the day their puppy was saved by three dedicated first responders who treated him as family.

For their bravery, compassion, and quick thinking, Assistant Chief Herb Chaffee, firefighter Phillip Chaffee, and firefighter Cayla Hurley are being honored with the 2025 Juno Hero Award.

Phoenix Rises: Dog Rescuers and Police Seek Abused, Emaciated Dog's Owner

Phoenix shortly after rescue (photo courtesy Broken Tail Rescue)

Now known as Phoenix, this pit bull mix was so weak when rescuers found him earlier this week that he had to be carried to their vehicle.

Emaciated, covered in sores, and barely able to stand, he was rushed to emergency care—another heartbreaking reminder of the cruelty some animals endure. It’s the kind of story that makes animal lovers—really anyone with a heart—ask why.

Phoenix was discovered near Chandler and Main streets in Worcester, where a man claimed he had found him a week prior and had been trying to nurse him back to health. But with severe injuries to his face and legs, and his body reduced to skin and bone, it was clear he had suffered far longer than a week. Worcester Animal Control responded to the call and reached out to Broken Tail Rescue, a group that has been working closely with the city’s officers to place animals in need.

Late that night, Joy Chambers, founder of Broken Tail Rescue, received the photos from Worcester Animal Control Officer Patricia Dykas—images no animal lover wants to see. Without hesitation, she committed to getting Phoenix the care he desperately needed.

“The ACO texted me at 10 p.m. on Monday with photos of the dog when she picked him up,” Chambers said. “I immediately said we would take him to the vet, so Tuesday morning, I took him down to Ocean State [Veterinary Specialists]. He was there until last night.”

At the hospital, veterinarians found that Phoenix was covered in dried feces, had multiple pressure sores, and was severely malnourished. But despite his horrific condition, there was some hope—his bloodwork looked stable, and there were no signs of refeeding syndrome, a dangerous condition that can arise when a starved animal is given food too quickly.

Now in a foster home in Millbury, Phoenix is slowly beginning to heal. “Today, he started showing tail wags,” Chambers shared. “And he was playing with a squeaker toy.” Small victories, but ones that show his resilience.

Ocean State Veterinary Specialists estimate Phoenix to be about five years old. Worcester Police are actively seeking information about who may be responsible for his neglect.

“People should call Worcester Animal Control if they know anything,” Chambers said. If you have any details, contact 508-799-1211. Tips can remain anonymous.

Phoenix’s story is one of suffering, but it can also be one of hope. With the right care and compassion, he will rise again—just as his name suggests.

👉 Want to help? Donations to Broken Tail Rescue can make all the difference in Phoenix’s recovery. Visit their website to contribute.

#JusticeForPhoenix #RescueDogs #EndAnimalCruelty #AdoptDontShop