Came here over the weekend after the gf found this Pet Fair listed online. When we read that there would be over 2K pets up for adoption over the course of the 2 day weekend, we knew we had to just come to check out all the cute fur babies. Located in Alameda County Fairgrounds, the premise itself is quite big, and parking is plentiful and free, albeit unpaved and rather bumpy. When parking, be sure to make a note of the lot #, located at the front of each lot, in addition to the section letter. We made the mistake of only looking at the section letter and then later realizing that each lot had the same letters. While it may be a bit of a walk from the lot to the actual event itself depending on where you park, they have courtesy shuttles (aka trucks towing trailers with covered seating) that will take you to the event space and then later back to your car. The actual event outside has a TON of different booths hosting different vendors ranging from pet supplies, pet food, to pet photos. And most of them were giving out free samples so we wound up with a big bag full of dog food/treats by the time we left. As Pet Food Express is hosting the event, they give out a free tote bag for you to hold your freebies in as you roam the premise. And many other vendors thankfully also offer free tote bags as well. There are two main indoor buildings, with one side hosting dogs for adoption, and the other side hosting cats. In addition, we also saw many bunnies and even sold birds up for adoption as well. All the animals we encountered were very well socialized, and even the few which had signs warning people not to stick your hand in their cage/crate did not appear aggressive. At one point, my gf fell in love with this one cutie of a puppy that was such a sweetheart! Fortunately (or unfortunately if you ask my gf), she was already adopted. Else I am pretty convinced that we would have probably left there with a new family member. The event is well organized and well spaced out. There are plenty of workers and volunteers around if you have any questions, and despite it being in the mid 90's outside, even the outdoor tents which housed pets had fans and/or mist sprays which kept things cool and comfortable for all animals involved. And to keep dogs from burning their feet on the hot concrete, we saw workers avidly spraying down the ground to keep things cool. Plus water/bath stations were plentiful as well. Overall a really great event that allowed us to interact and play with a variety of different 4-legged friends. Be warned however for the possibility of leaving with a new addition to the family! read more

Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon - Pet Adoption Near Me - Pleasanton, California

I went in 2017 and had a blast, I didn't adopt since I already had/ have 3 cats already at the time, so went to see what foods they had etc. they had a cat litter there that was Made in California, it was ultra fine and clumped SO fast and didn't stick to the sides. Their booth was ONLY about the cat Litter. I bought 4 bags of it and forgot the name of the company who made it. I know this is a long shot and someone may never see this but if you remember please let me know the brand because it was life changing for me! They need to bring this Event back!!! I really miss going! read more

Super fun event for dogs and humans! We are already excited to come again next year and many years after that. It is a massive pet party and adoption event. Many shelters and rescues converge for a 2 day adoptathon. Every corner you turn, you will find a cute dog, cat and even small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. We even saw a reptile booth! Although, we weren't there to adopt, I was really tempted to bring home another dog or a guinea pig named Norman! We brought both of our dogs and they had a blast saying hi to other dogs and getting their tummies filled with yummy treats. We've been trying to find new food for our dog and this was the perfect place to do so because all the pet food express vendors come out and provide samples and tips. By far, my dogs' favorite brands are Kiwi Kitchen and Primal's goat milk. On top of the free samples, we also got lots of manufactor coupons that we used at PFE! Another favorite vendor of mine was P.L.A.Y, they make quality pet toys that are both cute and durable. Pleasanton tends to get hot so be sure to bring a dog bowl and fill up at the water stations or head to the mist stations to cool off. Great event for the whole family and furbabies! read more

Got to be the biggest pet fair I've ever seen .. all kinds of dogs and cats together with their human family are enjoying the fair grounds.. they have tons of dog n cat for adoption. Lots of free treats to your best animal friends too ...food trucks to take snacks .. kudos to the organizer.. it's worth the trip from San Francisco.. after all it's a day for pets to enjoy read more

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I had such a great time. Took my little Parker and he too had a great time. He loves meeting people and other pups. He was a little nervous at first but within 30minutes he was much much more comfortable walking around. There were so many booths offering a bunch of free food samples,teeth cleaning samples, shampoo, etc. I left with three bags full of free stuff for my pup!!!! I don't think I'll have to shop for doggie food/ treats for a while. A lot of people were adopting dogs which was really great to see. Will definitely be going again to the next event. read more

Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon - Different booths offering a lot of free samples - Pet Adoption Near Me - Pleasanton, California

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What a fun experience albeit I didn't see a dog that I wanted to adopt. I can say it's definitely an event if you are a dog lover to visit and walk around with your companion if you have one. Plenty of sights to see as with lots of freebies! I will mention that there are cats here too and they had a few birds for adoption too. If nothing catches your eyes, there's a fair amount of food trucks and vendors here. It's once a year but it's fun to go and browse around. read more

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Would you believe me if I told you that, for one weekend a year in the Bay Area, you can be surrounded by THOUSANDS of kitties and pooches? That probably sounds more unlikely than climate skeptics believing global warming is real am I right? NOPE, there is actually an event for this: The annual Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon at the Alameda County Fairgrounds! I recently stopped by with my girlfriend after hearing about it through a coworker and we TOTALLY HAD A BLAST! The best part about it all was that the event was ABSOLUTELY FREE! The Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon happens once every summer (around early September?) at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. If you've ever wondered what goes on at the Fairgrounds when the county fair isn't in town, amazing events such as this adoptathon are happening! The really nice perks about this location are that: 1. Transportation isn't actually that bad since the fairgrounds are nearby the 680/580 Freeways, and BART is also nearby too (though you will have to bus the rest of the way; and 2. Parking is pretty chill despite the crowds because of the HUGE space that the fairgrounds are located in. As the name suggests, the Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon is a GINORMOUS event for pets (e.g. cats, dogs, birds, bunnies, etc.). I mean, I guess people are also invited since they have to bring the cute animals, but anyway I digress. Here, you will see THOUSANDS of different animals. Many of them will be pets that people bring from home, and others (definitely at least a thousand) will be ones that different shelters around the Bay Area are trying to give away to prospective adopters. I believe when we went, there were at least 1,200 different animals up for adoption! If you plan on coming, I recommend ARRIVING EARLY because there's SO MUCH TO DO HERE! For the pets themselves, there are HUNDREDS of different booths offering free/purchasable goodies such as snacks, chew toys, etc. If they're not interested in swag, but want some exercise, there's even a giant pool (a.k.a. the "splash zone") where they can jump in and impress a cheering crowd of people! Seeing different breeds of dogs try to jump/swim was definitely my favorite part. For humans, there's at least 3-4 different warehouses that have various pets up for adoption. I'm pretty sure that you are able to find every single breed out there. And if you just want to eat and relax, there's plenty of fair food too! Furthermore, there's several shows too (besides the "splash zone") such as a live K9 patrol demo! If you feel like it's too hot, there's even a fog station! There's really something just so magical about being surrounded by an army of cute animals. And that's exactly what you get at the Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon. I came into this event without any intent on adopting a pet, but in the end I was really about to cave in. I hope this adoptathon keeps on happening because of all the joy it brings everyone - including the pets. For that reason, I give this event an "omg, I'd travel 2, no FOUR hours for this" rating. Have fun and prosper, read more

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This thing is huge! Even bigger than last year. Well behaved pets are welcome to attend with their owners, free samples of all kinds of pet supplies are given away, and so many rescued animals are adopted during this event. It's awesome! Thanks to Pet Food Express for keeping this event 100% free. Even parking was free, and it's never free at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. I hope it continues. read more

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After searching for a couple months for the perfect kitty, we found him here from the organization called "Community Concern for Cats," also known as "Last Chance Cat and Kitten Rescue." They socialize and train their kitties well. We adopted 4 month old Oliver. All cats have different personalities, but Oliver is quiet the talker. He kept meowing, and his meows were louder than the dogs. He likes his belly rubbed, is fine with his paws being touched, likes to be carried, and is a snuggle bug. He definitely has his big kitty manners at only 4 months old, thank you to his foster mom and this organization! Thanks Pet Express for hosting this event! I highly recommend this to everyone with pets or is looking to adopt. You will find your fur baby here. read more

Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon - Adopted Oliver from Community Concern for Cats. Look for their pink banner. - Pet Adoption Near Me - Pleasanton, California

Had no plans of adopting a dog this weekend but this event was amazing! I ended up meeting Arthur, a little 6lbs of preciousness that decided he wanted to come home with me and I could not say no. Jackson Galaxy was so helpful too, I feel like I understand my cats better now. Thank you Pet Food Express for putting this event together!! Arthur was one of over 1800 pets that found forever homes this weekend, that's 1800+ pets waking up in loving homes rather than a shelter or on the streets, 1800+ families receiving the unconditional love of their new family member. read more

Bay Area Pet Fair & Adoptathon - Arthur - Pet Adoption Near Me - Pleasanton, California

This is really cool! A pet fair and an adoptathon! Including multi-agencies from around the Bay Area. Bring the entire family: Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Marin Center Exhibit Hall and Fairgrounds, 10 Ave. of the Flags, at Memorial Dr., San Rafael (415-229-3174). read more

We heard about the event on the radio a week beforehand, and boy are we glad to find out about it!! Most vendors gave free samples and I really liked the fact that most vendors offer products that are made/product of USA, natural ingredients or free from fillers (soy, grain etc). Some where super generous where you can just take as many samples as you want. I came here mainly for the samples since my girl yorkie is SUPER iffy with her treats, this was a good way for her to try new goodies. It was super crowded when we arrived around 11am on a Saturday. Overall, I really enjoyed it and had a great time! It would've been better if there's more vendors offering toys, clothes or other unique pet stuff; most vendors only offer treats or pet food. Also wished there were different type of animals that people can adopt. Almost 99% were dogs and cats. Saw a few rabbit but that was about it. Another downfall was when we were looking at the indoor exhibit and saw poop smeared on the floor and people were stepping in it :(. read more

We just came back from the pet fair. We mainly went to support the cause, see animals (no intent to adopt, but I always enjoy a visit), and see what exhibitors had to offer. I was kinda disappointed there weren't more cat-oriented vendors. My cat expects us to bring stuff home for her, like toys or treats, and I didn't see anything interesting. The "human" offerings (pet themed bags, etc) were a bit few and far between as well. Lots of vendors hawking things, mostly dog stuff, but we got a 20% off coupon from Pet Food Express. If you're going to adopt pets, you're going to the right place for kittens/cats. There were tons of absolutely adorable feline pets. When I rescued my cat, I would have loved such a great selection of animals to meet. I'm not sure about the dogs - we met some great greyhounds (I'm not sure if they were up for adoption or belonged to the rescuers), and I saw 2 schnauzer mixes who were going to be up for adoption soon. So I'm not sure how lucky you'd be on that end. (I was also there Sunday afternoon, so maybe there used to be a lot of dogs for adoption). Really, $7 per person (we got a $1 off coupon from Pet Food Express a week ago) is pretty steep for a bunch of booths selling things or taking fees. I don't really think you should have to pay just to look at adoptable animals or look at vendor tents selling you things (walking into an SPCA and pet food store is free after all). I do hope the entrance fee goes to a good cause, becuase the fair really isn't worth it from a monetary standpoint. That said, the weather was great and we saw a kind of neat (but really disorganized) presentation by the SFPD about their canine force - that was interesting and enjoyable (the dogs really seemed out of their element!) I gotta laugh - there are sure a lot of 5 star reviews on this page from people where it's their first or second review ;) read more

The Bay Area Pet Fair and Adoptathon calls itself the pet event of the year and they absolutely live up to the name! I drove all the way up to San Rafael from the South Bay last year (2012) to check it out and it just surpassed all of my expectations. So many people! So many dogs! So many adoptable pets! Shows! Expo booths! FREE PET STUFF! It was AWESOME! I literally ran out of hands to carry all the swag that we got from what seemed like hundreds of sponsor booths and exhibitor booths. So many products to try! Despite it being such a large event it never felt disorganized or haphazard, everything was very professionally organized. Definitely go to this event if you're looking to adopt a pet (dog, cats, rabbits, birds, they had them all). This might be one of the largest adoptathons during the year. Both of the rescues that I got my two dogs from attend this event to adopt out their dogs. Last year the Bay Area Pet Fair and Adoptathon counted 550+ animals adopted during that weekend! What a great organization and event. Definitely looking forward to going again this year! Oct 5 and 6th, we're going! Oh, and this event is FREE! read more

I attended the 2006 Pet Fair, the first year they held the event. It was wonderful, a lot of good products and services for pets, and the animal rescue, and overall animal-friendly effort are to be commended. I couldn't go in '07 but am thinking of going up this year. I'm a cat person now (i love dogs too though, just can't have any right now) and indeed the event is more celebrative for dogs than cats. I met that poor, crippled dog, I think he only had 2 front legs, and utilized that very humble-looking, home-made worn-out , wooden walker device, that was sooooooo joyous and inspirational to see that dog's big happy smile while dragging that clanky contraption around attached to his body. The poor thing was moving around here and there excitedly, happy as could be, it was just beautiful, I can almost cry remembering him. The locale is gorgeous, but the drive is far, and it is true there were a lot of vendors selling their pet wares ala a trade show overshadowing the educational and adoption aspects. But the goods and services being sold were mainly good, healthy stuff, and they did have an array of educational activities including seminars inside. I really enjoyed listening/watching Warren Eckstein's "The Pet Show" live broadcast from the event, although I think he's not at the event this year. The adoption effort aspect was there but is indeed a bit overwhelmed by all the booths. Also, it did get boring I admit, but I think these kinds of causes need a helping hand, its not all about "entertaining" our demanding senses, this is a good cause event. read more

Each year the Marin Humane Society participates in the Bay Area Pet Fair hosted by Pet Food Express. Pet Food Express has found a way to unite shelters and rescues on one weekend per year that results in one thing that matters to everyone: Home Found. We are always impressed with the group of animal organizations and guests, along with the variety of family and animal friendly activities throughout the event. We are looking forward to this year's event on October 5 & 6th and finding homes for the endless amount of animals that are waiting to be adopted. read more

I brought my two nephews (13 and 7 yrs old) and my sister to the fair. We had a great time! The kids loved watching all the dog tricks and meeting the pups. We also brought their golden ret. who got a free hair cut and left a much more handsome dog than when we arrived. We also came away with a lot of free stuff - dog snacks and frisbies and balls and bags to carry them all in. A great time was had by all. I give this fair 4 stars, rather than 5 because they ran out of people food and probably needed more food vendors. But hey, who knew so many hungry people would show up? That's such an easy fix. I NEVER felt that anyone was pushing products on us. It was fun to see what's out there for pets. All in all, we loved it and can't wait for the next one. read more

I though that the Pet Fair was the cat's meow,!! I attended both days bringing a different dog each day. I have been involved in animal rescue for several years and was pleased to see folks from every Bay Area rescue organization that I knew of and several of their available pets. We discovered, and received free samples and information about, the new dog food that we are now happily using. And we got lots of cookie samples! Everyone we saw was having a good time with their dogs and families in tow. The entertainment was a wonderful addition. Dude, the Border Collie, watched the frisbee dogs closely while Shiloh the Shepherd cheered on the Police dogs when they found their "bad guy". The Katrina ceremony brought tears to my eyes! I can hardly wait to see what the "second annual" has in store for us this Fall. read more

The Bay Area Pet Fair is coming up in less than two weeks and my co-workers and I can't wait! It was such a fun and positive event last year -- and the best thing about it? It helps LOTS of animals find new homes. The Marin Humane Society alone (where I work) did 54 adoptions over that weekend last year! There was a large number and wide assortment of animals available for adoption both inside and out, along with myriad other enjoyable booths and activities, so I am puzzled by the two reviews complaining about a lack of animals. Where were these people??? Come to the Bay Area Pet Fair this Sept. 8 & 9 and see for yourself. You'll have a great time. read more

We adopted our first puppy from here. We visited the websites the night prior, found a couple of dogs we wanted to look at, got there, and fell in love with one we hadn't seen! We adopted from Lake County Animal Services, Keri, Zach, all of the people working were extremely friendly, and it was quite an experience. We went through their process and adopted the puppy. It's good to know there is an interview and application to go through, these animals deserve good families! If you are interested in adopting, or ready to adopt, go here and take a look, you'll definitely be able to make your mind up! read more

LOVE THIS EVENT!!!! I have attended this event for the past two years...as a volunteer for a dog rescue who brings adoptable dogs AND as a particpant who walked around and looked at all of the other rescues and vendor booths! What fun...i love this type of event, esp if there is FREE stuff....the location is great...spacious...great weather...plenty of parking!...and people really want to meet the animals! as a matter of fact, we did GREAT adoptions last year to some truly wonderful people.....truly worth your time to come out and enjoy the day (or days) . Plus this benefits adoptions from rescues in the Bay Area! What is better than that? read more

We had an awesome time at the Bay Area Pet Fair today! Bring water though as it isn't available anywhere except from like 2 vendors and it was HOT out. There also was pretty much no food to speak of but the fair is small enough that you'll be done within an hour anyway. OH GOD SO MANY FREE SAMPLES. We walked away with bags of stuff, sometimes I was even given full regular sized bags of product! My pets can't wait to eat all these goodies! The splash dogs (water agility) was the best part of the fair and a must see. Bring your pet, I brought my dog and she loved it although she was getting pretty over heated, thankfully there was quite a bit of water for the dogs around. read more

I help with an adoption booth each year. Between the adoptions at the shelter and at the event, it is the biggest adoption day of the year for us. The fair is a bit dog-centric, but totally worth going if you are looking for a dog or a cat. read more

So much fun. The biggest selection of pet foods to explore. Wonderful blankets,beds,jewelry that rescue groups are selling for donations. It's just a little sad that so many beautiful pets need forever homes, but I'm glad that there were a lot of people were doing it ! read more

This is the absolutely best place to go if you're thinking of getting a new pet to be part of your family. There are so many cats and dogs (and other critters) there needing a new home. When you adopt you get a coupon for 20% off at Pet Food Express as well as a $25 gift card to spend there, and the group you adopt from gets a $50 donation. Hundreds of animals are helped by this event every year. read more

Our first time participating as a Rescue Group and it is a great event to bring awareness and recruit potential foster-parents as well as adopters! read more

One of the bet events I have ever been to. My Wheaten Terrier loved being there and was so happy when we ran into her vet, she just had to give her a wheaten greetin. Every vendor with a treat table got a five paw rating from her. The Marin fair grounds is beautiful, all the adoption group did an awesome job and what could be better than 690 animals finding new furever homes. Can hardly wait to go again next year. read more

This event is, no joke, the most fun you will have with your dog all year!! There are tons of booths with cool stuff, informative stuff and, most importantly, FREE stuff! Last year, almost 600 animals got adopted, but even if you are not in the market, just go with you pooch and have a great t ime! This is not a dog-person-only thing either, kitty parents will also find lots of stuff to keep them purring. All I can say is... GO! You won't leave empty handed or sad faced. read more

I truly enjoyed all of the vendors with their products, services and knowledge. I had recently adopted 2 ratties and found the seminar on Rat Care very interesting. I enjoyed watching the dog activities and being at an event filled with pet loving people. The folks that created and launched this event along with the local rescue groups are responsible for 150+ homeless pets finding forever homes, that in itself is worthy of 5 stars! I look forward to the 2007 Pet Fair! read more

I'm loosely associated with a group participating and there will be LOTS of animals ready to adopt. It's a really fun fair, bring a camera! read more

Where else can you find great pets that need new homes and pet lovers galore? This is the place to be this coming weekend. Mark your calendars even if you dont plan on adopting. Come for the fun and festivities. Its fun every year!!! read more

Awesome event! Great job by Pet Food Express.

As a manager at a local senior dog rescue group I'd have to say we LOVED participating in the Pet Fair. We were able to adopt some of our long term residents into great homes and pet food express was a wonderful and organized host! Not to mention my dog had a BLAST at the splash dog booth. I highly recommend this event to any dog lover. read more

The most adoptable animals in one location in Bay Area history. Puppies, senior pets, big, little, four legged, two legged, all waiting for a new loving home. And over 600 of them did just that!! Also, tons of pet related products and samples, entertainment and a kids pavilion that had face painting among other activities. If you are a pet looking for a home, this is the place to be. If you are looking to add a pet to your life, this is the place to be. read more

I love looking for pet events to take my dog to. This was our first time at this event and it was a lot of fun! There were tons of vendors giving out dog/cat sample treats, food, coupons, etc. and SO SO many adoption agencies. We adopted our senior dog last year and decided to come this event just to check it out. We certainly did not expect to adopt another dog there but we found one that we just fell in love with! It's a great event that was put together for a great cause, and with all these rescue groups in one spot, it's so much easier for someone to find their new furry friend (which are the best types of friends if you ask me), and give them forever homes. Parking was free, admission was free, will definitely be coming back next year! read more

awesome event!!! ***free ****amazing cause *****great family friendly event ******many lives saved! read more

I attended the Pet Fair (along with my foster dog) as a volunteer for a local dog rescue group. Several people have written in saying there were too few dogs for adoption. I guess they didn't look very hard because there were plenty of adoptable animals in attendance. In our group we had at least 6 dogs each day, if not more. Last year's fair felt a little disorganized but it was the first one so I'm sure all the kinks will be ironed out this year. For somebody looking for a dog/cat to adopt this is a GREAT venue. read more

yes and i bet that the marin humane society will have all the good dogs already spoken for their volunteers family and friends. alot of cronisim going on at that shelter read more