Ahh, summertime and time to celebrate all that is good in America! Especially for those four-legged friends who visit, live, and play throughout Big Sky Country. It’s so dog-gone-friendly here! From the lakes to the parks, and beyond, it’s a pup’s paradise, found!
To help you plan the perfect getaway for your entire family, take a look at some of the events that are all about your favorite four-paw friend throughout the Treasure State. Trust us, they will spoil your pup to the core throughout the dog days of summer!
Speaking of being spoiled, there are some beautiful homes for sale and communities in Northwest Montana that overflow with amenities that make humans happy too. Connect with the Hollinger Real Estate team for personal property tours. We would be delighted to share our insight with you.
July 22
The Big Mountain Run
Whitefish, Montana
Run, walk, or hike to the top of Whitefish Mountain Resort with your family and furry friend, too! During this 41st annual event, you can choose the level of exertion. As the website notes: it’s a “lung-busting fitness challenge or a casual family hike, the choice is yours! All ages and abilities welcome.” You can run or hike 3.8 miles with a 2,200 ft. elevation gain to the summit of Big Mountain with prizes awarded for humans … and the Top Dog (fastest on leash), too. It’s a fundraiser for the Glacier Nordic Club and a whole lot of fun as well.
August 4 – 6
The Heat is On!
Montana K9 Aquatics
Billings, Montana
Brought to you by North American Diving Dogs, this is THE event where your super splasher, dock diving dog can earn a Diving Dog Title. This was an eye-opener for us as the ‘sport’ of “Dock Diving” is apparently one of the fastest-growing sports for dogs. Really! North American Diving Dogs has enhanced its popularity by working with dock facilities and competitions across the USA. And with all the lakes throughout Montana, we fully expect contests like these to be standard summer events.
August 5
Dog Dash
Missoula, Montana
It’s an event for all to enjoy with contests, challenges, and social gatherings. Bring the whole family to see their series of events that include a “Doggy Ice-Cream Eating” contest, a “Whipped Cream Lick a Line” race, and more events to challenge each dog’s pawsome power. The event is all about bringing families together to raise money. For every ticket sold, they will donate a leash or collar to Big Sky Happy Tails, supporting their mission to provide comfort and care to dogs in need.
August 11
The Street Dog Coalition
Missoula, MT
Our Missoula team at the Street Dog Coalition pop-up is offering free medical care on the first Thursday of every month for pets of people experiencing homelessness in and around Missoula. Vaccinations, de-worming, parasite treatment, and an exam of minor medical problems are among the services being offered. All dogs should be on leashes and cats in carriers.
August 19
Pet Fest
Missoula, Montana
It doesn’t matter what size, shape or age your furry friend may be as this event welcomes young and old. There are contests for the age groups and a full day of fun and education for all. Looking to adopt a pet? This is the perfect day to do so. Need to have your pet neutered or spayed? Come on by for these services and visit the large selection of vendors who have products and services to ensure your pup lives a good life under the Big Sky! The event is free with a donation of unopened pet food.
August 26
Great Falls Dog Dash “Drool in the Pool”
Great Falls, Montana
The city of Great Falls Animal Shelter and Dog Dash have creatively designed yet another fun way to spoil your pup at the Electric City Water Park. As their website notes: “It’s the first time to bring the most pawsomely epic experience to Droll in the Pool!” The event includes a Dog Dash 3K obstacle course, complete with prizes for those who walk or run.
August 26
High Fly in the Big Sky
Billings, Montana
Here’s another event brought to you by North American Diving Dogs where your dock diving hero can earn its title for the summer. Splashes include up to three minutes on the dock for one optional practice jump and two judged jumps. Each distance jumping Splash allows 2 judged jumps, back-to-back. The longest jump of them will be your Qualifying Score.
August 26
Wine & Bitch Dinner
Greenough, Montana
The entrepreneurs at The Resort at Paws Up continue to impress. For a truly fine feast with your furry friend by your side, sign up for this annual gourmet night that overflows with fine food and wine pairings and tail-wagging treats.” Reserve your spot now that promises “a good time for people and pups alike.” Hurry, this one sells out.
August 27
15th Annual Canine Classic
Greenough, Montana
Continuing their quest to keep you and your dog healthy, the folks at PawsUp are hosting this 15th annual event. It’s a trail hike (or run) with races that include a 2-mile, 5-mile, or half-marathon or just a stroll … all off lease (if you so choose). The trails are well-marked through pastureland and some dirt roads as well. In the end, the fun continues with a gourmet picnic and swag bag to take home to celebrate another fun day with your four-paw friend by your side. Proceeds benefit Working Dogs for Conservation.
September 10
Paint Your Pet
Missoula, Montana
Get a head start on your holiday gifting at Pet Your Pet. Bring your furry friend and let the local artists sketch your pet and give their creative touch to the eyes, nose, and mouth. Then it’s your turn to finish the artistry! It’s a fun night out as well (BYOB)! The finished size can be a 16 X 20 or 12 X 12 canvas. Pre-register to save your spot.
