'Really fun to watch:' Petfest attracts animal owners and plenty of 4-legged friends

Petfest 2019

MILWAUKEE -- Pet lovers headed to Maier Festival Park on Saturday, Sept. 21 for the sixth annual Fromm Petfest. Thousands of four-legged furry friends took full advantage of the festivities.

It was a sight you don't normally see: Thousands of animals walking around Maier Festival Park.

"It's really cool that they allow us to come out, and just kind of let the dogs see what we do during the summer," said John Fitzgerald of Milwaukee.

Petfest 2019

Petfest 2019

Families -- both two-legged and four-legged -- headed to the pet-focused festival, a free, furry day of fun with activities like a lure course, doggie dash, and dock diving.

"We've got Great Danes," said Lauren Grimm with Fromm Family Pet Food. "We've got teeny little Chihuahuas. Every kind of breed. Every age."

"The dogs get really excited to see each other, so it's really fun to watch," said Fitzgerald.

Petfest 2019

Angelo Gagliano

Animal lovers said the event was an opportunity for their pets to interact with others, while they enjoyed checking out the vendors at the festival.

"We try to get him out here to see other dogs, and interact with other people," said Fitzgerald.

"Seeing all the dogs, and playing with all the dogs," said Angelo Gagliano, Milwaukee. "And all the treats!"

It wasn't just dogs getting spoiled. Cats also got some fresh air on Saturday.

Jane

"He feels like the king of cats," said Jane McAndrews of Milwaukee. "You know he's happy."

The festival was the purr-fect opportunity for pet owners to connect, explore vendors from around the area, and try their hands -- or paws -- at the activities.

All of the proceeds from the ticketed events benefited animal-based nonprofit programs in the Milwaukee area.

Petfest 2019