When Mick Swigert of the South Florida reggae act Spred the Dub lost two of his beloved dogs back to back, he decided to turn his grief into something positive: He founded Bark Back, an annual fundraiser to support the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League of the Palm Beaches.

The organization finds homes for pets in need and offers lower-cost veterinary services. “Peggy Adams has an amazing facility and staff. And the amount of good work they do, we wanted to support them anyway we could,” says Swigert tells PureHoney.

Now in its eighth year, Bark Back 8 promises to be a party, packed with bands and fun for the whole family. After last year’s move to the larger Bryant Park, the festival has been able to expand its offerings with a classic car and motorcycle show, food trucks and more vendors.

“One of the highlights of the day is the first responders dog walk. We have local firefighters from station 91 here on Lake Worth, as well as deputies from Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, walking adoptable dogs up and down our runway, showing off the goods,” he says. If you want to adopt, there will be plenty of furry mammals in attendance who need good homes.

The musical line up includes Brett Staska and the Souvenirs, Billy Doom is Dead, ¡Fuákata!, Uproot Hootenanny, The Petty Hearts, Nirvanna (tribute band), Mariachi, Octo Gato, The Supervillains and Swigert’s band. “The energy will be nonstop from the gates opening ‘til we close up shop,” he promises.

Swigert emphasizes that the benefit is a group effort. “This festival would not happen if it weren’t for the support of the music community,” he says, noting that many of the bands donate their fee to the cause and then volunteer at the event. “It’s times like this that you realize what a great music scene we have here in Palm Beach County,” he says, “and how close knit we all are with each other.”

Bark Back 8 runs noon-10pm Saturday, October 21 at Bryant Park Amphitheater in Lake Worth. barkbackbenefit.com ~ Liz Tracy