West Plains, MO – On Saturday, May 3, the West Plains Civic Center was transformed into a celebration of paws, purpose, and community spirit as the Paws For A Cause Pet Show and Festival brought together local families, furry companions, and animal lovers from across the region. Hosted as a fundraiser for Ozarks Pet Rescue, the event featured a full day of fun, including a pet show, vendors, carnival games, raffles, a food truck festival, and more—all with one mission: to support the rescue and rehoming of animals in need.
More than 41 dogs competed in a variety of pet show categories, with each participant bringing joy, personality, and charm to the stage. Organizers emphasized that while awards were given, every animal was a winner for simply showing up and sharing the day with the community.
The official winners of the 2025 Paws For A Cause Pet Show are as follows:
Best of Show ($50 Cash Prize)
Winner: Onyx
Best Agility
Winner: Gizmo
2nd Place: Angel
3rd Place: Phoebe
Best Tricks
Winner: Drake E
2nd Place: Rosemary
3rd Place: Lil Sis
Best Costume
Winner: Ella
2nd Place: Drake E
3rd Place: Onyx
Dynamic Duo
Winner: Rosemary
2nd Place: Lil Sis & Max
3rd Place: Abbie & Griffin
Prettiest Pup
Winner: Onyx
2nd Place: Bear (#21)
3rd Place: Koda Bear
Adorable Adult
Winner: Ella
2nd Place: Granite
3rd Place: Piggy
Ugliest Dog (and proud of it!)
Winner: Alexis (solo contestant)
People’s Choice with Onyx being first with Best of Show!
2nd Place: Sunny
3rd Place: Bear
Attendees enjoyed watching dogs strut their stuff, perform tricks, and show off costumes that ranged from silly to stunning. From agility courses to creative duos, the talent and enthusiasm on display kept the crowd cheering throughout the day.
Donations were collected at both the Pet Show area and the Meet-and-Greet station. While the final fundraising total is still being calculated, organizers expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from attendees and sponsors alike.
“This event isn’t just about fun—it’s about making a difference for rescue animals,” said a representative from Ozarks Pet Rescue. “The turnout, the laughter, and the generosity of our community made this one of our most heartwarming events to date.”
A special thank-you goes out to the event sponsors:
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Complete Canine Academy
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Star Barks Pet Grooming and Spa
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Hart Family Eyecare
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Always Faithful Memorial Services
The event was judged by Mayor Mike Topliff, Kandi with Haven’s Dog Training, and representatives from Trusting K9, who volunteered their time and expertise to evaluate each category with care and professionalism.
Volunteers also played a critical role in the day’s success, with a special acknowledgment to Rylee Bee Greenhouse for organizing vendor layout and supporting behind-the-scenes operations.
Event organizers encourage attendees to share photos of their participating pups online and stay tuned to social media pages for additional updates and winner spotlights in the days ahead. As well as all the photos from the event, once the photographer has them all ready.
In the end, Paws For A Cause was more than a pet show—it was a testament to the power of compassion, community, and the special bond between humans and animals.
There will be more photos available soon!
