Ron Magill Joins The Big Woof Festival as Its Ambassador
- adriana
- Nov 14
- 2 min read
The Big Woof Festival (January 17-18, 2026, at Regatta Park) is proud to announce that Ron Magill, renowned wildlife photographer, Communications and Media Relations Director at Zoo Miami, and conservation advocate, will serve as Festival Ambassador in support of dog rescue efforts in The City of Miami and Miami-Dade.
Magill has spent decades dedicating his life to the protection of animals, both wild and domestic, through education, outreach and hands-on programs. At Zoo Miami, Magill founded the Cheetah Ambassador Program, established the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment, and has raised millions to support wildlife rescue efforts around the world.
“Animals have taught me one thing above all: you protect what you love, and you love what you understand,” said Ron. “That’s why I’m proud to serve as Ambassador of The Big Woof Festival — because every dog deserves a home, every pet needs a voice, and together we can turn the tide on this shelter-crisis in our community.”
In joining The Big Woof Festival, Magill will lend his voice and passion to a new front: supporting thousands of dogs surrendered each year in Miami-Dade, promoting adoptions, and raising awareness of the local pet-welfare crisis. The festival will collaborate with PAWS4you Rescue and others to present a branded adoption zone, educational and wellness sessions and a special appearance by Magill.
“We are honored to have Ron on board,” said Carlos Blanco, Managing Partner of The Big Woof Festival. “His legendary animal-rescue credentials and storytelling ability bring the credibility and heart we need to elevate this festival into a movement for change in our community.”
Magill’s support underscores the festival’s mission: to help transform the narrative of dog abandonment in Miami-Dade – where tens of thousands of dogs enter shelters each year – into one of rescue, hope and action through adoption alternatives, educational resources and wellness talks so that dogs can truly find there forever homes.
About Ron Magill
Ron is a renowned animal expert, wildlife photographer, and Zoo Miami's Communications and Media Relations Director who has dedicated over 40 years to wildlife conservation and education. He is a multi Emmy award-winning photographer and documentary producer, a Nikon Ambassador, and makes frequent media appearances on various television programs, both in English and Spanish. Magill is also a passionate advocate for conservation, notably establishing the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment to fund conservation projects and scholarships.
About The Big Woof Festival
Taking place on January 17-18, 2026, The Big Woof Festival – Miami’s first large-format dog festival in the nation’s 8th largest dog ownership market – brings together thousands of dog lovers, families, and rescue organizations for a weekend of adoption, community, and celebration. The festival showcases Champion Frisbee Dog performances, entertaining pup contests, K-9 exhibitions, dog training demonstrations, wellness talks, vendor booths, and delicious food and drinks.
The festival takes place at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove. The festival’s prime benefactor is PAWS4you, a Miami-based rescue shelter. In addition, Miami-Dade Animal Services will also participate in the festival.
For more festival information, please visit www.thebigwooffest.com.
For Sponsor and Vendor Opportunities, please email: info@thebigwooffest.com.
Media Contact:
Laura Pequignot
The Big Woof Festival