Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – In recognition of Responsible Pet Ownership Month, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez invites residents to attend Paws at the Park, a FREE, family-friendly community event celebrating pets and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Paws at the Park will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and is open to the public. The event encourages community members to bring their furry companions and enjoy a morning dedicated to education, awareness, and fun.
“As pet owners, we share a responsibility to ensure our animals are healthy, safe, and cared for throughout their lives,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez. “By promoting microchipping, spaying and neutering, and routine vaccinations, events like “Paws at the Park” help strengthen public safety, reduce pet overpopulation, and support healthier pets and communities.”
The event will focus on the importance of responsible pet ownership, including proper nutrition, disaster preparation, fire safety, pet toxins, mental health, training, and providing pets with a safe, lifelong home. Educational resources will emphasize the importance of microchipping pets for identification, spaying and neutering to help reduce pet overpopulation, and keeping vaccinations up to date to protect both pets and the community.
As part of the event, FREE microchips will be provided to the first 200 pre-registered dogs to arrive, helping families ensure their pets can be quickly identified and reunited if lost. Pet owners will also have the opportunity to update their pet’s microchip contact information on site.
Additional event highlights include pet treats, pastries, a coffee cart, pet adoptions, and the opportunity to visit booths hosted by various Hidalgo County departments, local school districts, and police departments, many of which will be accompanied by their therapy dogs.
As part of the celebration, winners of the “Caught on Paw-mara” Pet Photo Contest will be announced during the event. The contest invited Hidalgo County residents to submit candid photos of their pets in four categories: Pets at Work, Bad Hair Day, Caught Being Sneaky, and Couch Potato, highlighting the joy and personality pets bring to everyday life.
