Two nonprofit organizations — PawsAbilities and Polk County Humane Society — will be on-site at Petfood Forum 2026, giving attendees opportunities to meet adoptable pets and support animal welfare initiatives.
The Polk County Humane Society, a nonprofit animal shelter based in Bolivar, Missouri, will be joined by students from Missouri State University's companion animal science program.
These pet charities will be on-site during the event, offering attendees and exhibitors meaningful opportunities to connect with their missions, support animal welfare initiatives, and engage directly with adoptable pets.
Visit the Pet Charity Dog House
Throughout the event, attendees can meet both organizations in the Pet Charity Dog House, located in Aisle 2100 of the exhibit hall on April 28-29, 2026.
Dog House Hours:
Tuesday, April 28 | 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 29 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
This dedicated space gives Petfood Forum participants a chance to interact with animals, learn about each organization’s mission and discover ways to get involved.
Meet & Greet opportunities with visiting pets
In addition to the Dog House experience, attendees can enjoy special meet-and-greet sessions with visiting pets at select exhibitor booths:
Coperion (Booth 1531): Tuesday, April 28 | 9:15-9:45 a.m.
Rangen (Booth 1701): Tuesday, April 28 | 2:35-3:10 p.m.
The meet-and-greets offer an informal opportunity to spend time with the animals while connecting with industry partners supporting these charitable efforts.
Paul Ward PhotographyPawsAbilities: Empowering people through pet products
Located alongside the Dog House, PawsAbilities will showcase its mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through hands-on job training and employment opportunities in Kansas City.
Attendees can support PawsAbilities by purchasing:
Handcrafted, all-natural dog treats
Handmade bandanas
Upcycled dog toys made from t-shirts
The program provides young adults with real-world experience in production, retail and customer service, helping them build skills for future employment.
In preparation for Petfood Forum 2026, students have been working with shelter puppies to improve their adoptability. These puppies will be on-site in the Dog House, giving attendees the chance to:
Play and interact with adoptable dogs
Learn about shelter operations
Explore ways to support local animal welfare
As a 501(c)(3) organization, PCHS relies entirely on donations to provide food, medical care, and shelter. Thanks to community support, the organization helped facilitate the adoption of more than 1,300 animals in 2026.
PCHS is independent and ensures that all funds raised directly benefit animals in Polk County and surrounding areas. Their work focuses on reducing pet overpopulation and promoting responsible pet ownership through education and spay/neuter initiatives.
Whether you’re looking to support pet charities, connect with industry leaders or simply spend time with animals, the Pet Charity Dog House at Petfood Forum 2026 offers a unique and meaningful experience.
Stop by, meet the organizations, and be part of making a difference in the lives of pets and people alike.
Supporting sponsors
These on-site charity experiences are made possible through the generous support of Coperion and Rangen, whose sponsorship helps bring awareness to important pet-focused organizations during Petfood Forum 2026.
Paul Ward Photography
Paul Ward Photography
