If you need a fun family portrait and want to include your fur kids, bookmark this list of stores offering pet photos with Santa in 2026. Most of the offerings at pet-friendly stores are completely free. Stores use them as a way to get you through their doors during the busy holiday season, but we're not complaining when it means adorable photos without spending a dime.
Before you head out, make sure your pup is leashed or in a carrier, vaccinated, and comfortable around people. It'll be way less stressful for both of you. And definitely bring along some treats to keep them calm (even better — we've got coupons for dog treats ).
Where to Get FREE Pet Photos With Santa in 2026
1. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's: Nov. 1 - Dec. 24 (predicted)
Timing: Predicted Sunday, Nov. 1 - Thursday, Dec. 24, 2026, daily from 10 a.m. - 7:45 p.m. (time slots available about every 15 minutes).
Info: Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's are sister stores, so they offer the exact same Santa photo freebie. This is honestly one of the best deals because you get an actual printed photo, not just a digital file. There are tons of additional freebies and activities for kids too, which we cover in our full guide to the Bass Pro Santa freebies.
The majority of Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's locations allow dogs and even cats in stores year-round, except where local laws or shopping centers prohibit it. As long as your local store allows it — and your furry friend is on Santa's Nice List — bring 'em along for a photo.
What It Costs: One free 4x6 print per family, plus a shareable video sent to your email.
Reservations: Recommended. Book on BassProShop.com or Cabelas.com.
2. Pet Supplies Plus: Dec. 12 (predicted)
Timing: Predicted Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, from noon - 2 p.m. at participating stores.
Info: Pet Supplies Plus typically hosts their "Jolly Jubilee" event with holiday photo ops for your pets, plus free samples, free pup cups, and the opportunity to make your own holiday paw print card. Check the Pet Supplies Plus events page closer to the holidays for more info.
What It Costs: Holiday photos plus other festive fun events are free, but some locations might ask for a small donation for printed photos (we've seen $10 minimums in the past).
Reservations: Sometimes required — check your local store's policy. All pets must be leashed or in a carrier.
3. PetSmart: Dec. 12 - 13 (predicted)
Timing: Predicted Dec. 12 - 13, 2026, from 2 - 5 p.m. local time.
Info: PetSmart brought back their popular Santa photos in 2025, with pets getting to pose with an actual person dressed as Santa (not just a backdrop). Treats members typically earn bonus rewards points on all purchases made in-store during the event. As a reminder, PetSmart permits more than just cats and dogs in-store; their policy allows for birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, sugar gliders, and pot-bellied pigs too.
You'll likely need to book online to reserve your spot for a free photo.
What It Costs: Free.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit PetSmart's Santa Photos page closer to the holidays to book a time slot.
4. Petco: Dec. 5 and Dec. 12 (predicted)
Timing: Predicted Saturday, Dec. 5, from 2 - 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, from noon - 2 p.m., at participating locations.
Info: Petco brought back their Santa photo days in 2025 after skipping in 2024, so we're expecting them to continue the tradition in 2026. While you're there, keep your eyes peeled for fun in-store activities and freebies during the holiday season.
What It Costs: Get free photos with Santa.
Reservations: Check your local store for details. No advance registration is typically required.
5. Hollywood Feed: November - December (Varies by Location)
Timing: Multiple dates throughout November and December at participating locations (predicted timing based on past years).
Info: Hollywood Feed stores across the country host pet photo events with Santa (and sometimes the Grinch) throughout the months of November and December. Each location partners with local pet rescues, so your donation goes directly to helping animals in need in your community.
What It Costs: Most locations ask for a $10 - $15 donation per photo, with proceeds benefiting local rescues. Some stores offer both print and digital formats.
Reservations: Varies by location — check your local Hollywood Feed's Facebook page for their specific event dates and details.
6. Tractor Supply: December (Varies by Location)
Timing: Usually first or second weekend of December.
Info: Many Tractor Supply locations offer free pet photos with Santa, typically during the first or second weekend in December. Past years have seen stores in Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and other states participate.
What It Costs: Free photos at participating locations, plus a free magnetic picture frame for the first 25 customers at some stores. Heads up — some locations charge up to $20 per photo, so definitely call ahead to confirm your store's policy.
Reservations: Not required.
7. Earthwise Pet: Mid-December (Varies by Location)
Timing: Usually mid-December.
Info: Since Earthwise is a franchise, each location does its own thing for holiday pet photos. In past years, we've seen events pop up at select locations in mid-December.
What It Costs: Many stores offer free Santa or Grinch pet photo pop-ups, though some ask for a small donation to local pet rescues. Past events have included free goodie bags with samples.
Reservations: Varies — check your local store's website or Facebook page.
8. Woof Gang Bakery: November - December (Varies by Location)
Timing: Usually November or December.
Info: We've seen Woof Gang Bakery locations offer Santa Paws photos during November or December, typically for just a few hours in the afternoon.
What It Costs: Prices range from free to around $10 depending on location. Some stores accept toy donations for local shelters in exchange for photos.
Reservations: Check local store’s website or Facebook page for availability and pricing.
9. Your Local Humane Society: Throughout December
Timing: Throughout December (predicted timing based on past years).
Info: Many Humane Society locations host holiday festivals and photo ops during December as fundraisers. Just search "humane society near me" to find your closest location and see what they're offering.
What It Costs: You'll usually pay a small donation (we've seen $5 - $20 for a photo), but you'll get a holiday keepsake and know you're helping animals in need.
Reservations: Varies — check your local humane society's website.
10. Your Local Mall: Throughout December (Varies by Location)
Timing: Varies by location.
Info: Many malls still do big holiday photo events, and some allow pets on certain days (like Simon Mall locations, for example). Searching your location on WhereIsSanta.com is helpful for finding mall photo shoots. Your mall's Facebook page and Google are also good places to check. Just make sure to verify that pets are allowed before you show up.
What It Costs: Mall Santas typically charge a fee for their professional photos, so your best bet is to snap the photo yourself using your own camera while you're there.
Reservations: Usually not required, but varies by location.
You May Also Be Interested In:
Download the KCL app to add and redeem coupons in store
For iOS and Android users.
