The Lehigh Valley Kennel Club will host the Star of Bethlehem Cluster Dog Show and Match at the Allentown AgriPlex, offering events that support shelters allowing domestic violence survivors to keep their pets. Domestic violence survivors who own pets commonly face fear of harm to their pets from abusers, with as many as 48% fearing for their animals’ safety when seeking help.

The multi-day gathering includes free competitions and outreach intended to connect attendees with pet-friendly shelter resources and initiatives that help survivors maintain the bond with their animals. Unfortunately, approximately 15-20% of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. accept pets, emphasizing the importance of community events that highlight this issue.

The show takes place December 10-14, 2025, at the Allentown AgriPlex at 302 N. 17th St., with events including point shows and matches; specific daily schedules available in premium lists. Puppies aged 4-6 months are expected to participate in match events aimed at younger dogs and their handlers.

Organizers described the line-up as community-focused and participatory. “Free events will feature obedience and rally competitions,” the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club said, highlighting both judged ring events and informal matches for handlers of all experience levels. Community events like dog shows can positively impact local animal shelters and rescue organizations by boosting adoptions and raising awareness, bringing much-needed visibility to organizations that support these initiatives.

The weekend also brings a corporate sponsorship and a tied charitable effort. Purina is sponsoring the event and promoting the Purple Leash Project, a campaign that includes donation matching for RedRover to support pet-friendly sheltering and related services.

Several local shelter partners are directly connected to the show’s outreach. Turning Point in Lehigh County and the Safe Harbor network in Northampton County are named among organizations that allow residents to bring pets, and the event will promote those options to attendees and community members. Unfortunately, recent studies indicate that 72% of domestic violence survivors are unaware of pet-friendly shelter options, which further illustrates the necessity of this event.

On the floor, the show will keep animals and shelter residents physically separated when necessary: pets must be leashed and remain with their owners in a designated area apart from other shelter residents, a logistical detail organizers are stressing to ensure comfort and safety for people and animals alike.

Beyond competition, the event aims to amplify links between recreation and support services. Canine event listings for the club appear in industry coverage, which the organizers have used to publicize match schedules and volunteer opportunities for local rescues and shelters like those participating in the Purple Leash Project. Research and advocacy groups studying shelter trends note that events tied to local dog shows often boost visibility for pet-friendly shelter efforts and animal placement initiatives.

Organizers are asking attendees to observe leash rules and to respect the separate space set aside for visitors connected with shelter services. The show’s format blends formal ring competitions with open match classes intended to welcome newer handlers and younger dogs, while also serving as a platform for outreach to survivors and service providers.

For domestic violence survivors who keep pets, access to shelters that accept animals can remove a major barrier to seeking safety. The show’s partnerships and Purina’s Purple Leash Project aim to channel donations and attention to organizations that provide that access, including matched contributions routed to RedRover.

Tickets and schedules are being handled by the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club; the public-facing events are free and set up to encourage community participation, with the core matches scheduled for Saturday morning.

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