Four-Legged Friends Welcome at FidoFest, Set for May 17 in Warwood
Dogs and their humans are invited to the third annual FidoFest set to happen this month in Wheeling, and this time it’s coming to Warwood.
Wheeling Heritage has announced this year’s canine celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 17 at Garden Park and Fitzsimmons Family Dog Park in Warwood.
A new community art installation inspired by photos of local dogs will be unveiled, and there will be plenty of events for both dogs and pet owners
“I am thrilled to be part of FidoFest this year,” said Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support from our community. We can’t wait to see our neighbors and friends — and their canine companions — in Warwood for this awesome event and celebrate our furry friends together.”
In addition to the unveiling of the art installation, this year’s FidoFest will offer something for every dog and dog lover.
Prior to the event, the public will be able to participate in a “Stuff The Subaru” event by dropping food, toys, blankets, and other pet supplies at the Wheeling Artisan Center in downtown Wheeling or Wheeling Volkswagen-Subaru in Triadelphia – with additional locations to be announced.
During FidoFest, Zoom Canine Entertainment will provide two shows featuring high-energy performances of dog skills, and Smiley Ann’s Photo Van will be present to snap pictures with owners and their furry best friends.
The American Kennel Club will be presenting demonstrations and providing an opportunity for the public to learn from canine experts.
There will also be exhibitions by K-9 units and their handlers, and the opportunity to observe scent detection training.
Those attending should also look for these amenities:
– Adoption Area — Find your new four-legged companion through the Ohio County Animal Shelter and Road Home Animal Project.
– Doggie Nail Bar — Nail services provided by Dog Wash & Grooming and Bianca Saporito and Angela Watkins.
– Food Trucks — Enjoy delicious offerings from Ideal Provisions, So Nuts for Donuts and Mason Dixon BBQ.
– Vendor Market — Shop pet-friendly products and artisan goods from local vendors.
– Raffle Baskets — Enter for a chance to win a variety of baskets filled with dog products, treats and services.
– Kids’ Center — A dedicated area with activities to keep young dog lovers entertained.
– Live DJ & Music — Keep the energy going all day long.
– Exclusive FidoFest T-Shirts — Get yours at FidoFest!
– Costume Contest — Dress your pup in their most creative, hilarious, or adorable outfit and compete for top prizes.
“We are happy to lend support to Wheeling Heritage in hosting this great festival,” said Ellen Gano, a representative of Volunteer Wheeling. “We’re still in need of volunteers to help out the day of the event and encourage folks to sign up.”
FidoFest 2025 is made possible with the support of main sponsor Dirty Paws, along with other generous sponsors: Bernie Glenn Insurance Company; Costanzo Woomer Mistendirk PLLC; DeFranco Financial; Dog Wash & Grooming; Hazlett, Burt & Watson Inc; K.E.Y. Animal Hospital; MCTV; OVBTC – Upper Ohio Valley Building & Contractors Trades Council; Pawz In Time LLC; Play ‘n Stay;, Smith Oil Inc.; Visit Wheeling, WV; Wheeling Volkswagen-Subaru and Windswept Farm Honey.