The Texas Pet and Handler contest celebrates one of the most expressive corners of the kink community. Two titles are awarded — Texas Pet and Texas Handler — each scored independently on their own 1,000-point scale. Whether you lead or you follow, this contest is about the authenticity of your dynamic, your connection to the community, and your ability to represent that on a national stage.
Winners represent Texas at an international-level competition — IPTC, World Pet, or equivalent — as ambassadors for the Texas Pet and Handler contest and Austin Kink Weekend.
What the Contest Looks Like
Each contestant is scored individually across seven categories on a 1,000-point scale using Olympic Scoring — the highest and lowest judge scores in each category are dropped. Pets compete against pets; handlers compete against handlers. A contestant must score at least 80% (800 points) to be awarded the title.
- Judges' Interview — 300 points. The highest-weighted category. A sit-down with the judging panel covering your application, leather and pet/kink history, social media presence, lifestyle, and personal beliefs. The judges set the pace — be ready for a wide range of questions. This is how they get to know you.
- Fantasy/Play Presentation — 200 points. A three-minute on-stage scene. This can be pet-fun-centric or overtly sexual in nature (acted out, not performed). Bring up to two additional people on stage. You may scene with another contestant — both will be scored, but disclose this to the producer beforehand. Music and background tracks required in MP3 format, submitted before the first day of the contest. Stage practice time will be provided.
- Speech — 200 points. A memorized speech between 90 seconds and two minutes, on any topic you choose. Judges score content and delivery. Points deducted starting at 2:05, then one point per additional five seconds. Choose a topic you're passionate about — this is how the public will see you as a titleholder.
- Pop Question — 150 points. One or two questions on stage — randomized or chosen specifically for you by the judges. You'll have one minute to answer. This is about comfort on stage and thinking on your feet, since public speaking is part of the title year.
- Lifestyle Image — 100 points. Scored from Friday's contestant meeting through the weekend. Judges observe how you interact with the community — in public spaces and during the mosh. Pets are observed for mosh interactions, behavior, and consent handling. Handlers are observed for creating safe space and attending to the well-being of all participants. Social media continues to be monitored. A large part of holding this title is spending time with both friends and strangers — balance matters.
- Application — 50 points. Scored for thoughtfulness and thoroughness. Keep answers succinct and within the 1,000-character limit.
What Winning Means
The Texas Pet and Texas Handler titles are year-long commitments to visibility and service. As titleholder, you'll be expected to:
- Make a minimum of six public appearances at leather, fetish, or LGBTQ+ events across Texas
- Organize at least one charitable event or fundraiser benefiting the leather, kink, or LGBTQ+ community
- Attend, assist, and promote Austin Kink Weekend 2027
- Compete at an international-level competition (IPTC, World Pet, or equivalent) as Texas's representative
- Maintain good standing and professionalism while wearing your contest sash, back patch, or other title-affiliated attire
- Not compete in other leather, rubber, puppy, pet, or fetish contests during the title year
Who Can Apply
The contest is open to LGBTQ+ individuals who are 21 or older as of April 1, 2026 and permanent residents of Texas. The application fee is $25 (hardship exceptions available — contact
