Vote for the 2026 Bark in the Park mascot!

Vote for who should lead the Walk for Animals at Bark in the Park on May 16! Voting is open through March 12, and the winner will be announced on or around March 14.

“Phoebe, our beloved fur child, was adopted from the Humane Society in 2015. She has since become a cherished member of our family, and we are immensely grateful for the Humane Society’s dedication to helping homeless animals in the St. Louis community. Each year, Phoebe eagerly anticipates participating in Bark in the Park, and we both run the 5k together. We have already started our training for this year’s event, as we take a break from running during the winter!

Phoebe would be an excellent ambassador for Bark in the Park, as she is the definition of pure sugar. Not only is she a regular participant in the event, but she also placed in the costume contest a few years ago. Her enthusiasm and spirited nature make her a perfect representative for all rescued animals, showcasing the love and joy that the work of the Humane Society brings to our community.”

“Kylie was adopted in 2016, from Forever Friends Great Dane Rescue. She was surrendered by a war veteran that lived in southern Missouri. Since her adoption, she has experienced all that the Lou has to offer. She has visited all the many dog friendly establishments in the area and is the face of the DogFriendly_STL Instagram page – which features all the dog friendly experiences, events and locations in St. Louis. She has always had a sweet personality and we have always been told that she is incredibly well behaved in social settings. Everyone that meets her, falls in love.

She is especially known for the marking on her chest, that looks like a star. Just about everyone she meets loves to point it out. She turned 10 on February 28th and this would be the icing on her birthday cake to celebrate her being a Perfect 10.”

“Nebula is a 2-year-old Shiba Inu who should represent all animals at Bark in the Park because she is a great representation of how the Humane Society of Missouri, and all animal rescues, give animals a new chance at a happy home. And she is adorable! Nebula came to the Humane Society of Missouri as part of a transfer from the National Puppy Mill Rescue Organization in September 2024. When she first arrived at the Humane Society, she was terrified of everything and wouldn’t even come through her kennel door to be taken outside.

After spending some time with her during a volunteer shift, we fell in love and knew she needed to come home with us. She took a few days to get used to her new home, including her new fur brother, but it wasn’t long before her personality came out. Over the past year, we have taken Nebula to new places and on new adventures. Wherever we go people can’t help but comment on how cute she is and ask what type of dog she is. We always love getting to introduce more people to the Shiba Inu breed and tell the story of how she was rescued from the Humane Society and has become a happy, adventurous dog, who has brought us much joy as an amazing member of our family.”