The VHS was the first organization in the area to introduce Pet Pictures with Santa in 1986. Next year will mark its 40th anniversary!
The Vanderburgh Humane Society’s annual Pet Pictures with Santa are Saturday and Sunday, November 8th and 9th. This year marks the 39th for this holiday tradition, sponsored in 2025 by Heritage Federal Credit Union. VHS is the Tri-State’s original Pet Pictures with Santa in Evansville, and still the best!
Pet Pictures will take place at Washington Square Mall in the food court. All pets must be kept on a leash or in a carrier until the time of their photo. Times are as follows:
·Saturday, November 8th, 10 AM - 5 PM
·Sunday, November 9th, 11 AM - 4 PM
For $30, participants receive two digital images for their own use. Photos may include more than one animal, and kids and adults are also welcome in photos with or without pets! This is an excellent opportunity for a family Christmas card. Digital images will be sent prior to Thanksgiving. Costumes are welcome, and rental holiday accessories for pets are available free of charge!
How long ago did VHS start Pet Pictures with Santa?
The VHS was the first organization in the area to introduce Pet Pictures with Santa in 1986. Next year will mark its 40th anniversary!
Can only dogs attend? Or people & other types of pets?
Typically hundreds of families attend, bringing pets & people of all types and ages. Santa has been known to visit with not only dogs but cats, rodents, chickens, snakes, pigs, even goats & horses!
How much does this event help the animals?
Both the photographer and the venue space at Washington Square Mall are donated. Santa is taking time out of his busy North Pole schedule and has volunteered to be at the mall both days. Volunteers help with registration. Therefore, almost the entire $30 fee will come to the animals of the VHS! This is the same popular, beloved Santa who has done VHS photos for many years. The event averages around $10,000 in proceeds, which will help the VHS care for the 4,000+ animals that are surrendered to the facility each year and provide low cost spay/neuter services.
How can I pay?
Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and tap-to-pay are all accepted!
What if my pet is cranky in public/with other animals?
Hosting the event in the Washington Square Mall food court allows ample space for pets to spread out while waiting in line. This is much easier on families whose pets can get grumpy with others, and reduces overall anxiety before photos are taken. In past attendee surveys, this was guests’ #1 favorite part about VHS’ Pet Pictures with Santa compared to other holiday pet photo events!
For more details on this event and for photo/broadcast opportunities, please contact Amanda Tuesday-Thursday, November 4th-6th at the above information.
More photo examples from years past: