#United States #Phoenix #America's Favorite Pet #Colossal Fundraiser #Modern Dog

The Exciting Launch of America’s Favorite Pet® 2026

Every year, millions of households in the U.S. open their doors and hearts to pets that quickly become cherished family members. Recognizing this bond, Colossal, a leading professional fundraising organization, has once again launched its successful campaign, America’s Favorite Pet®. This annual competition not only celebrates the unique relationships between pets and their owners but also serves as a vital fundraiser benefiting PAWS, a Washington-based nonprofit focused on the rescue and rehabilitation of domestic animals and wildlife.

Connecting Communities through Pets

With registration now open until January 12, 2026, pet parents across the nation are invited to enter their beloved cats and dogs. This year marks the 6th anniversary of America’s Favorite Pet, which has raised an impressive $22 million to date to support the invaluable work of PAWS. Contest participants have the exciting opportunity to win a grand prize of $10,000, along with a feature on the covers of either Modern Cat or Modern Dog magazine. The appeal of the contest is simple yet powerful: pet owners upload photos of their pets and encourage their friends, family, and local communities to cast votes online.

A Platform for Change

What makes America’s Favorite Pet unique is how it combines fun with purpose. Voters can cast one free vote every 24 hours, and those who want to contribute more can donate $1 for additional votes. The funds generated are crucial as they directly support PAWS' ongoing mission to provide care and sanctuary for hundreds of animals needing emergency assistance. In 2025 alone, the competition raised more than $8 million, which was utilized to build a new wildlife rehabilitation center and expand educational programs for over 4,000 students nationwide.

Celebrities Join the Movement

Adding to the excitement of the competition, renowned hosts Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy return to champion the cause. Both are passionate advocates for animal welfare, and their involvement not only elevates the profile of the event but also inspires participants and supporters to engage with the cause. Their genuine devotion to pets resonates with many, making the effort to rally support for the competition feel personal and significant.

Engaging in a Community of Pet Lovers

America’s Favorite Pet is more than just a contest; it’s a movement that unites pet lovers nationwide. It highlights the importance of compassion and community in caring for animals. Whether pet owners enter the competition, donate, or simply vote, every participant plays a vital role in continuing to foster a culture of kindness toward animals. The initiative neatly intertwines social media engagement with real-world impacts — a testament to what can be accomplished through collective enthusiasm.

The Journey Ahead

The registration period for America’s Favorite Pet 2026 is now underway, inviting cat and dog enthusiasts to share their pets' stories and join a nationwide celebration of love and community. With sponsors like Crown Paw and Love, Nala, the campaign promotes products that enhance the lives of pets while raising funds for a worthy cause.

A call to action goes out to all: participate, donate, or vote and help sustain a legacy of compassion that has already transformed countless lives, both human and animal. As we enter a new chapter with this beloved competition, we look forward to inspiring a new generation of pet advocates.

Learn more about Colossal and join the fun at colossal.org.