Patriots Host Pawtriots Adoption Event at Gillette Stadium During NFL Draft Weekend

When approximately 40 shelter dogs were brought to Patriot Place Plaza for a Pawtriots TailGate Watch Party last October, more than 30 of them left with families by afternoon's end. The Kraft family and the Patriots Foundation have now built on that result with the first-ever Pawtriots Dog Adoption and Draft Watch Party, inviting fans to the Sports Illustrated Pavilion at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, April 25, from noon to 3 p.m. ET. Admission is free.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston is a confirmed partner, joining other local shelters to bring adoptable dogs to the venue for the afternoon. Adoption procedures are handled on-site by each shelter's own staff, who screen prospective families and counsel on energy levels, exercise requirements, and long-term care fit. For anyone evaluating a high-drive breed, that conversation with an adoption counselor is where the actual matchmaking happens, not the paperwork. Each shelter sets its own procedures, so planning ahead and arriving early gives prospective adopters the best shot at working through the process within the three-hour window.

The Draft timing is purposeful. Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft commences while the event runs, covering Rounds 4 through 7, a stretch that draws a steadier, family-paced crowd compared to the prime-time first round. That dwell time creates space for the extended meet-and-greet that matching a dog with the right home actually requires, particularly when the dog in question has a motor that doesn't quit.

Debby Chaplic, ARL's Director of Education, put the program's track record plainly: "Between the Patriots training practice and a tailgating party, we adopted out 27 dogs and puppies just last year." The April 25 event draws from a larger NFL Draft audience and a purpose-built indoor venue.

Dana Kraft launched the Pawtriots initiative on the first day of the team's training camp in partnership with animal shelters across New England. The program has since expanded through radio partnerships, food drives, and multiple watch party events, with the Draft gathering representing its highest-profile staging. Former Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer, who appeared at the October TailGate, captured the program's pitch directly: "These dogs don't ask to be in shelters... if you are able to, take some love out of your family and bring them into your home, you'll never regret it."

The event will feature special appearances by Patriots alumni and cheerleaders, photo opportunities, family-friendly games, giveaways, raffles, and a Pawtriots merchandise collection. Fans are encouraged to bring donations of pet food, toys, collars, and leashes for the participating shelters. The Sports Illustrated Pavilion is at 1 Patriot Place, Foxborough, Massachusetts.