STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

Paw ‘N Pole, one of the most colorful events in the Wood River Valley during the 2000s, has returned.

The 2025 Paw ‘N Pole will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at Mountain Humane just west of Hailey in Croy Creek Road.

Decorate your dog and yourself and race together in Skate Ski, Classic XC Ski and Skijoring Races. Show off your artistry in a Snow Dog and Cat Building Contest, your physical prowess in a Snowball Carrying Contest and your sense of humor in a Silly Pet Tricks Contest.

Barkley got lots of votes in a Paw ‘N Pole held during an election year.

There also will be a Costume Contest with this year’s theme being Superheroes.

Prizes include a 2025-26 BCRD Nordic Trail pass, Rotarun ski pass and gift cards to Domino’s, McDonald’s, Natural Grocers and Hank and Sylvie’s, plus much more. A raffle will also be held for a Ketchum Staycation that includes a night at the pet-friendly Limelight Hotel and breakfast at The Kneadery.

Food and beverages will be available in Penny’s Barn, and spectators will have the opportunity to take Snowshoe Strolls and tours of Mountain Humane.

The free event is sponsored by Bigwood Bread Bakery. Other supporters include Sturtevants of Hailey, The chamber of Commerce and Blaine County Recreation District.

Mary Poppins turned up one year with Tigger in hand.

You can pre-register for the races and the Silly Pet Tricks contest by emailing your name, age, phone number and which race you would like to participate in to pawNpole@mountainhumane.org. The first 50 to register will get a paw print neck gaiter.

Paw ‘N Pole has attracted humans and canines dressed as aliens, Robin Hood and Little John and Mary Poppins and family. A highlight included a Dachshund who showed up as a wiener dog in a bun.