Ethan Unic poses next to a van filled with donated supplies for the Butler County Humane Society at its Barking Lot Party Sunday, June 8, 2025. Butler Eagle File Photo

Butler County Humane Society is bringing back its annual Barking Lot party for the second year.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, rain or shine, in the shelter’s parking lot, 1015 Evan City Road in Connoquenessing Township.

The party includes interactive games, creative activities and raffles, as well as vendors, music, food and the chance to dunk the humane society team and guests in the dunk tank.

“This year, we’ve doubled our vendors and we’re going to have new events for the kids,” said Taelynn Ulakovic, development and events specialist at the humane society.

“We’re also introducing a few new vendors that are going to be activity-based, we’re going to have a new face painter here and Lightning Hair Lounge will be here doing hair tinsel, and the (Cute Co.) Charm Bar in butler will be joining us as well.”

The “fill the van” donation drive for cat and dog supplies returns, as they are in high demand this time of year.

“During the middle part of the year, our donations typically slow down, but that is also simultaneously when we get the most residents in our facility,” Ulakovic said.

What makes this party unique is its dedication to educating the community on animal welfare, said Ulakovic.

Professionals including Butler County dog warden Cole Redup and his animal cruelty officer Lauren Rousseau will attend.

Cranberry Township’s VEG ER for Pets and Adams Township’s Playful Pooch also will be there to talk about resources.

An open house will be held during the event inside the Humane Society from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The open house offers education about the organization and an adoptable animal meet-and-greet.

The event is free to enter. Signs and volunteers will help guests find free parking.