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Petfood Forum 2026 will once again highlight the importance of giving back to the pet community by welcoming two impactful nonprofit organizations: PawsAbilities and Polk County Humane Society (PCHS).
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.
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.
PawsAbilities: 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.
Polk County Humane Society: Promoting Adoption and Responsible Pet Ownership
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.
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 1300 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.
Donate to Polk County Humane Society >
Get Involved at Petfood Forum 2026
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.
About the author
Lynzee Branstetter
Marketing Manager for Petfood Forum and WATT Global Media
Lynzee develops and leads marketing strategy across Petfood Forum and WATT Global Media’s pet food industry events portfolio, focusing on audience growth, brand strategy, and connecting pet food manufacturing professionals with educational and networking opportunities. She has worked in the pet food and animal ag industries for 15+ years.