*This article has been updated to show that the registration deadline has been extended to Oct. 24.*
Montgomery Mall is raising awareness for the kennel crisis and encouraging adoption at its Third Annual Doggy Halloween Costume Contest on October 26.
Attendees have a chance to register their four-legged loved ones for the costume contest and parade by Oct. 24 for $10, with proceeds benefiting animal welfare.
Richard Buttacavoli, event organizer, said the event brings together adoption agencies and welfare advocates to provide dogs with a home and spotlight the issue.
“We’re proud to bring this Halloween celebration back to the Montgomery Mall, especially in a time when animal welfare needs are so high,” Buttacavoli said. “It’s a wonderful day for pet lovers to come together, support local shelters, and enjoy a bit of Halloween magic.”
The community event will encourage attendees to support shelters facing overcrowding. A rise in cost of living and pandemic hardship drove the increase in pet returns and rescues are struggling to meet the demands.
Families and their furry friends can also enjoy vendors providing canine education and health information, pet adoption resources and musical entertainment by Lady E. Vendors won’t face a fee and can register for the event on the flier.
The parade will take place in the mall where costumed pets will strut their stuff through the upper and lower levels. Organizers hope the event will increase patronage to the Montgomery Mall which has faced foreclosure and seen a significant decrease in foot traffic.
After the parade, the pets will compete for an award in six different categories. Pets can be entered to win for Most Creative, Best Human/Doggie Duo, Funniest, LGBT Pride, and Cutest. Buttacavoli will award the top dog with Best in Show.
The event is supported by sponsors including Pets Plus Natural, Bux-Mont Awards, Minuteman Press of Ambler, Lansdale Grocery Outlet, Wegmans, Nova Probe, and S&B Sports Collectibles.
In addition to supporting the mall and raising awareness for the kennel crisis, the event is being produced in memory of Margaret Catherman, an animal lover and kennel manager of Pets Plus.
So put on your costumes with your pets and enjoy a day of celebration and animal solidarity.
