Palmetto Bay residents can adopt a dog and have the village pay for it on Sunday, Oct. 4, when Coral Reef Park hosts two events side by side.

The inaugural Wieners & Friends Bark Bash runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park, 7895 SW 152nd St. The free event features a lure course, treat and water stations, a costume contest and adoptable dogs brought by Miami-Dade Animal Services, according to the Village of Palmetto Bay's Facebook page. All dogs are welcome.

Village reimburses adoption fees for residents

Palmetto Bay residents who adopt at the bash can apply to have the fee reimbursed through the village's Adopt-A-Pet program. The village council allocated $10,000 for the program in July 2025, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds run out. Puppies younger than 4 months cost $85 to adopt. Dogs 4 months and older cost $65, which includes a $30 tag fee. Cats and kittens cost $35, according to Community Newspapers.

Who sponsored the program and how to apply

Council Member Marsha Matson sponsored the program, with Vice Mayor Mark Merwitzer co-sponsoring. The council approved it through Resolution No. 2025-42. To receive a reimbursement, residents must complete an online application on the village website, upload proof of residency and a Miami-Dade Animal Services receipt, then wait 30 days for processing.

In an October 2025 statement announcing the program, the village said the council allocated the funding because pets improve residents' quality of life.

Farmers market reopens for the season

The same day, the Palmetto Bay Farmers' Market holds its grand reopening at Coral Reef Park, running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The market's Instagram account described Sunday, Oct. 4, as opening day for the season. South Dade Spotlight also listed both events in its weekend roundup.

The market's Instagram post encouraged shoppers to bring their dogs and said the season is launching alongside the Bark Bash.

Upcoming at Coral Reef Park — Sunday, Oct. 4

• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Palmetto Bay Farmers' Market grand reopening. Free admission.
• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wieners & Friends Bark Bash. Free. Lure course, costume contest, adoptable dogs. Coral Reef Park, 7895 SW 152nd St.