The details
Hosted by the Hill Country Animal League, the free event took place Oct. 18. Owners and their furry friends had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, costume contest and doggy dashes.
“The turnout from the community was astronomical,” Forrest said.
Vendors were set up along the lawn selling dog treats, animal accessories and other community services. Forrest said the Silent Auction was very successful this year, with businesses across the community donating gift cards. All the funding from the auction goes toward funding spay and neuter services at the Hill Country Animal League.
“We doubled our capacity from last year to this year for silent auction items,” Forrest said.
Multiple adoption agencies were also present at the event, hoping to find forever homes for displaced cats and dogs in the Boerne area. Charming Pet Rescue, Helotes Humane Society, Boerne Animal Shelter and Cafe House Animal Rescue were among those in attendance.
Forrest said she anticipates about 26 animals to be adopted from the event. The animal league is already looking forward to the 6th Annual Barktoberfest on October 17, 2026.
About the nonprofit
The Hill Country Animal League is a local nonprofit that works to provide affordable spay and neuter services in the area. The organization carries out its mission through community donations, fundraising efforts such as Barktoberfest, and proceeds from its thrift store, located at 115 W. Bandera Road in Boerne.
“Our costs [for spay and neuter services] are more than half of what you're going to find elsewhere. We do between 40 and 60 surgeries a day ... that is our niche, that is our specialty,” Forrest said.
