Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk: Fun for humans and dogs

The Wayne County Dog Shelter's Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk will be Saturday, Oct. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. at Oak Hill Park, located at the Donald and Alice Noble Trail in Wooster.

Kate Mick is with the Wayne County Dog Shelter. She said, "The Howl-O-Ween Dog Walk is a fun celebration for dogs and people who love them."

Dogs are invited to come in costume and compete for prizes in five categories. Costumes are not required; however, humans also may dress in costume, although the contest is only for canines.

"Prizes will be awarded based on points in five categories: originality, creativity, presentation, personality and humor," Mick said.

Costume judging will take place at 12:30 p.m. during the event.

Mick offers a few cautions for those enthusiastic about dog costumes. "Watch for small pieces or ornaments that could be chewed and swallowed," she said. "Costumes shouldn’t restrict movement or be too tight, and of course if we get warm weather, keep the dogs hydrated to help prevent overheating."

There is a $5 fee per dog for the event. All funds collected benefit the shelter's medical fund.

"Guests are encouraged to enjoy the park's pathways," Mick said. "Volunteers will be staged around the main pathways with fresh water and doggie waste bags."

Everyone is reminded dogs must remain on a leash at all times and be licensed and up to date on vaccines.

The shelter has several items currently for sale that will be available during the event. In addition to their new T-shirts, there will be dog bandanas and magnets. A new item is the Rescue for Rescue 2019 calendar.

"The calendar is a collaboration between the shelter, Give Pets a Chance, and many area law enforcement and fire departments," Mick said.

Proceeds from the calendars will be split between the shelter and Give Pets a Chance, an area nonprofit offering assistance for medical treatment for companion animals.

Light refreshments will be provided, and shelter staff will be on hand to answer questions and share information.

"We will not be bringing adoptable dogs this year," Mick said. "The shelter will be open for anyone who would like to visit and meet one of our adoptables."

Mick shared some information about three of the shelter's current residents who are anxious to find a human to rescue. Dots is a cattle dog mix who is about 1 year old. "She is pure sweetness and lots of fun," Mick said. "She's super friendly and comes into a room ready to mingle. She loves belly rubs and snuggles."

Six-year-old Eve is a pit bull mix who also is anxious to get settled in with a new family. "She is a happy girl who is craving love and attention," Mick said. "She adores people and has a nonstop wiggle butt when she receives attention. Eve is looking for a new beginning in a happy and loving home."

Sweet, friendly and a bit timid, Daisy Mae has the "softest fur you've ever felt," Mick said. She's a 1-year-old hound mix. "Once she warms up," Mick said, "her amazing personality shines through."

The shelter is always in need of donations and volunteers. The next volunteer orientation will occur on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. at the shelter. Everyone is welcome; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Coming up in December will be the shelter's Santa Paws Open House on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 3-7 p.m. There will be vendors with items for both dogs and humans, photos with Santa by Meg Bowman Photography, and a bake sale.

Interested vendors are invited to contact the shelter for more information.

The Wayne County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is located at 5694 Burbank Road in Wooster. They can be reached at 330-345-1018.

Shelter hours are Tuesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Current donation needs include soft treats and peanut butter. Collars, leashes and toys are always welcome. Donations may be dropped off at the shelter during business hours.

For more information about the shelter, volunteering and current donation needs, visit www.waynedogshelter.org/ and find the shelter on Facebook.