Kids are naturally drawn to animals. And they are welcome to dig their fingers into soft fur at the petting zoo at Kritter Karnival. Sponsored by the Humane Society for Inland Mendocino County (HSIMC), this free event will include live music by Chicka Boom, as well as face painting, a dunk tank, carnival-style games, a raffle, and food and beer. It all happens on September 12, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., at HSIMC in Redwood Valley. For details, go to mendohumanesociety.com/events.