Pet Rock Fest Announces 2025 Festival Proceeds Awardees

Proceeds from the 27th annual festival support rescues, sanctuaries, veterinary aid, and humane education programs

Worcester County, MA - December, 2025— Pet Rock Fest is once again putting its proceeds where its heart is. Funds raised through the 27th annual Pet Rock Festival, held in October 2025, have been distributed to a wide range of animal welfare organizations working to rescue, protect, heal and advocate for animals across New England and beyond.

The 2025 festival marked the second year of Pet Rock Fest at its new home at the Lancaster Fairgrounds. With the move and a new fall date, the event continues to rebuild and reconnect with longtime supporters while welcoming new ones. The success of the 2025 festival helps ensure that Pet Rock Fest returns to the Lancaster Fairgrounds in 2026, continuing its long-running mission of promoting kindness to animals and responsible pet ownership.

This year’s charity recipients include a mix of longtime partners and new beneficiaries, reflecting the wide reach of Pet Rock Fest’s support. Organizations receiving donations include Foster Parrots, SweetPea Friends of Rutland Animals, Brown Dog Coalition, National Great Pyrenees Rescue, RedRover’s KIND News program, Greyson Hound Foster Fund, Paws 4 A Cure, Diego’s Friends Farm Sanctuary, Missing Dogs Massachusetts, Second Chance Animal Services, Cat Rescue of Marlborough and Hudson (CaRMaH), and House Rabbit Network.

Several recipients shared how the donations make a direct impact.

Paws 4 A Cure, which provides financial assistance to families who cannot afford urgent veterinary care for their dogs and cats, said the support helps keep pets with the people who love them. “This donation gives families the invaluable gift of time with their beloved companions,” said President and Founder Keri Goldman. “That gift is truly priceless.”

Diego’s Friends Farm Sanctuary, which focuses on education, rescue and emergency outreach for large animals, noted that Pet Rock Fest’s support helps fund critical emergency response efforts. “This donation directly supports our Owner Outreach Fund, allowing us to respond to emergency situations involving large animals and assist owners facing unexpected hardships,” said Dallas Keeney, president and founder of Diego’s Friends Farm Sanctuary. “We’re proud to stand alongside Pet Rock Fest in the belief that every animal deserves compassion, care, and a safe place to call home.”

Pet Rock Fest also continued its longtime support of RedRover’s KIND News program, which brings humane education into classrooms. Thanks to festival proceeds, KIND News will be delivered to more than 800 students across 30 Worcester County classrooms in 2026. “Pet Rock Fest’s generous donation allows us to continue inspiring children to treat all animals with kindness and respect,” said Katie Campbell, president and CEO of RedRover.

In addition to supporting nonprofit organizations, Pet Rock Fest has provided direct financial assistance to pet guardians facing urgent veterinary expenses and has contributed to reward funds in local animal cruelty cases. The festival also supports advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening animal cruelty laws and holding offenders accountable.

“Pet Rock Fest began as a response to an act of cruelty” said Founding Partner Charlene Arsenault, “and over the years it has grown into a platform for education, connection and compassion. By bringing so many organizations together in one place, we can help amplify their missions—and provide real, meaningful financial support. Every person who attends, donates, or spreads the word is part of that impact.”

Jeannie Hebert, founding partner, added, “The heart of Pet Rock Fest has always been about helping animals by helping the people and organizations who care for them.Our supporters and sponsors make it possible for these nonprofits to continue their work, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helps make that happen.”

Planning is already underway for the 28th annual Pet Rock Festival, with new ideas and collaborations in the works as the event continues to grow while staying true to its roots.

About Pet Rock Fest

Celebrating more than 25 years, Pet Rock Fest is the largest animal welfare festival in the Northeast. Held annually in the fall, it features guest speakers, vegetarian food, live music, games, a raffle, vendors, and participation from hundreds of animal welfare organizations. Beyond its flagship festival, Pet Rock Fest is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to raising funds year-round for animal welfare nonprofits and causes across New England. Donations to Pet Rock Fest are tax-deductible and directly support efforts to improve the lives of animals in need.

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If you’d like more information, visit www.petrockfest.org.