USPS Publication Number 16300
T h is C o m mu n i t y N ewsp a p er is a pu bl ica t ion of E sca m bia-S a n t a Rosa B a r Assoc ia t ion
Se r v i ng t he Fi r st Jud icial Ci rcu it
Section A, Page 1
Vol. 19, No. 42
Visit The Summation Weekly Online: www.summationweekly.com
October 23, 2019
1 Section, 8 Pages
Grab your dog, grab the kids, grab a leash...
It’s Barktoberfest!
by Dakota Parks
Fall is the perfect time of year to gather with family, furryfriends and dog-lovers alike at the 18th annual Barktoberfest. The event is hosted by the Pensacola Humane Society and will be held at the Community Maritime Park on Oct. 27.
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Barktoberfest gathers dog-lovers, animal rescues, local businesses, and non-profits together for a day of pet-friendly family fun. With food trucks, vendors, demonstrations and contests, there are plenty of activities for everyone to get involved with.
lifesaving efforts for
The event not only raises money for the Pensacola Humane Society but also showcases hundreds of dogs ready for adoption. “A large focus this year is spreading the Humane Society out within the festival to increase the visibility of adoptable pets—it’s a massive venue so visibility matters,” Pensacola Humane Society Executive Director Jennifer Bitner said. “Adopt Me harnesses are one idea to show people that dogs at the event are available for adoption.”
Barktoberfest continues to grow bigger and bigger each year. With an estimated 10,000plus attendees, the Pensacola Humane Society is hoping for an increase in adoptions. It’s a great opportunity for the Humane Society to host their partners and to highlight animal welfare and the work being done for the greater good of the community. “Our mega adoption event assists in lifesaving efforts for the animals at our shelter and the other rescues, sanctuaries, and shelters in attendance from all over the Panhandle,” Bitner said. In prior years, Barktoberfest successfully resulted in 10 to 12 adoptions for the Pensacola Humane Society alone. With 20-plus rescues and shelters in attendance this year, there are dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages up for adoption.
Costume contests and games are an integral part of the Barktoberfest fun and a great way to kickstart Halloween festivities. With morning and afternoon sessions, starting at 11 am and 2 pm, attendees are encouraged to participate in costume contests and games. Some of the categories include Best Costume and Best Owner & Pet Costumes for both adults and children. The event fundraises for the Pensacola Humane Society through Barktoberfest T-shirt sales, the Most Adorable Pet Photo Contest, and donations. Pet owners can upload photos of their pets to the photo contest and encourage their friends and family to vote for them. At a dollar per vote, one dollar feeds three shelter cats or two dogs for one day. All proceeds go directly to the Humane Society. The photo contest details can be found at www.gogopho-
Our mega adoption event assists in the animals at our shelter and the other rescues, sanctuaries, and shelters in attendance from all over the Panhandle.” tocontest.com/pensacolahumanesociety. While there are no breed restrictions for the event, the Humane Society requires all dogs in attendance to remain on leash. Other furry companions are welcome, but the Humane Society encourages pet owners to know their pet’s limitations when interacting with other animals.
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