Canine Costume and Compassion
“Halloween is not just for humans; it's a way for our four-legged friends to express their unique personalities.”
Ladies and gentlemen, fashionistas of both the two-legged and four-legged variety, it's that time of the year when we celebrate the marriage of style and adorable canines. October is here, and with it come a slew of Howl-O-Ween costume contests and events that promise to make your tails wag with delight! It's time to celebrate your love for dogs and your passion for style while supporting a great cause. Here's a roundup of the top five doggy events and pet adoption events happening this October 2023. So, grab your furbabies, put on your most fetching costume, and let's dive into the world of doggy fashion and pet adoptions.
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Jr's Barktoberfest: 3rd Annual A Dog Fair and Costume Contest
Thursday, October 19 – Newton, Massachusetts
Get ready to howl with joy at Jr’s Barktoberfest, the 3rd annual dog-friendly costume contest for a pawsitively delightful evening filled with raffles, pet-related vendors, and FREE bakery dog treats. The first 50 people to register will receive a limited edition dog bowl mat, making this event a must-attend for dog enthusiasts. The best part? It's all for a great cause. Hosted by ffles, pet-related vendors, and FREE bakery dog treats. The first 50 people to Jr's Paws for a Cause, proceeds will benefit Shultz Guest House, Project Samana, Kyle's Legacy canine cancer research, and treatment. It's an evening of fun, fashion, and furry friends, all for a fantastic cause! Don't miss out!
This event is not just about showcasing your pup's sense of style but also about fostering a sense of community among dog owners in the bustling city. It's an opportunity to meet fellow dog lovers, share stories, and make memories. Plus, it's a fantastic way to explore Netwon while enjoying some adorable canine costumes. Click here to purchase tickets.
The 3rd Annual Adoptober Fest's Adopt the Runway
Saturday, October 21 – Austin, Texas
Adopt the Runway promises a day of fun, fashion, and furry friends, bringing together a fantastic lineup of 13+ local vendors, makers, and small businesses, all setting up on the front lawn. With a DJ spinning tunes and a surprise Emcee, there's a lively atmosphere you won't want to miss.
The real stars of the show are the 18 adoptable dogs and perhaps a shelter cat, all donning adorable Halloween costumes and strutting their stuff down the runway. This heartwarming showcase isn't just about style; it's about finding these wonderful animals loving forever homes.
Utilizing the expansive front lawn for an #AdoptTheRunway adoption event, you'll have the chance to meet these incredible pets up close. If any of the runway pups steal your heart, you can arrange a meet & greet and potentially take your new best friend home.
Hosted by Austin Animal Center, their mission is clear: to get shelter dogs into loving homes and support local businesses. Mark your calendar for a memorable Saturday filled with exciting vendors, delightful dogs, special guests, and more. It's a day of celebration at the shelter, and you won't want to miss it!
LIVE Bash Doggie Costume Show
Wednesday, October 25 – Chicago, Illnois
Prepare yourself for a spooktacular evening at the Halloween Dog Costume Show & Adoption Showcase, happening at Live Bash presented in partnership with The Anti-Cruelty Society. You'll be able to meet adorable dogs and witness them strutting their stuff while the fabulous emcee, Luna, shares fun facts and heartwarming backstories about each costumed canine.
Now you can give back by spotlighting dogs in need of their forever families. If you can't attend in person, you can still show your support by watching the livestream and purchasing a digital collectible of the show at livebash.com.
Should you happen to fall in love with one of these dogs, in person or during the livestream, you can connect with an Anti-Cruelty Society representative to learn more about adopting them. It's a night of fun, furry friends, and the opportunity to make a significant difference in these dogs' lives. Don't miss out!
25th Annual Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest
Saturday, October 28 – Washington Park St. Brooklyn, NY
Hosted by Fort Greene PUPS, this event promises to be a howling good time! This dog costume contest is Brooklyn's largest and most outrageously fun event, where a plethora of adorable dogs compete for the coveted Great PUPkin rosettes for the top pups.
The real excitement begins at 12 pm sharp with judging of all entrants at the bottom of the monument stairs. It's a day filled with fun and creativity, and best of all, the Great PUPkin is FREE to attend, but register here if your dog is competing in the contest.
Check out this fantastic day of furry fashion and support a worthy cause at the same time! Don't miss this exciting milestone of the Great PUPkin's 25th year.
22nd annual Haute Dog Howl'oween Parade
Sunday, October 29 – Long Beach, California
The Annual Haute Dog Howl'oween Parade is a 'paw'sitively thrilling event that should be marked in your calendar! Taking place at the Park Near Belmont Plaza Pool, it's a dog-friendly extravaganza that's not to be missed.
Justin Rudd and his Community Action Team are the masterminds behind this, and they host one of the world's largest Halloween pet events. Imagine a parade featuring hundreds of kids and adults in creative costumes, followed by over 450 costumed dogs strutting their stuff alongside their handlers. It's a sight to behold!
Expect the parade route to be lined with a few thousand human gawkers, including a panel of distinguished judges ready to crown the best human and canine costumes. But it's not all about fun and games; the Haute Dogs parade is also dedicated to raising funds for spay/neuter programs, adoption and rescue groups, Operation Santa Paws, and various Long Beach service projects.
Don't forget to explore the vendors and pet adoption fair for even more excitement. It's an event filled with furry companions, fabulous costumes, and most importantly, a whole lot of heart. Don't miss it!
If you want to join the fashion parade with your own stylish pooch, here are some tips:
- Start early: Prepare your dog's costume or outfit in advance. Make sure it's comfortable, safe, and allows your dog to move freely.
- Practice: Get your dog used to wearing their outfit. Make it a positive experience with treats and playtime.
- Grooming: A little pampering at the doggy spa doesn't hurt! A clean and well-groomed dog will steal the spotlight.
- Pack essentials: Don't forget water, snacks, and poop bags. Dogs can get thirsty, and you never know when nature will call.
- Enjoy: Most importantly, have fun! These events are all about celebrating your bond with your dog and the joy of dressing them up.
The Takeaway
Adorable
COWBOY COSTUME
Does your pup like to run through the house or love jumping up and down? Then this costume was made just for them!
So, whether you're a fashion-forward pup parent or just looking for a good time with your furry friend, these October dog fashion shows have something for everyone. Pick your favorite, get your tickets, and make this month unforgettable for you and your stylish companion. After all, as they say, "A dog in a fashionable outfit is worth a thousand smiles!
Until next time, thank you for reading!
About the author: Gabrielle is the loving pawrent to adorable pups Willow and Dilla. Growing up surrounded by dogs, she always dreamt of having her own. Willow and Dilla came into her life and changed everything. Now, she's crazy about pampered pooches, and her perfect day involves dancing with her husband, dressing up her furbabies, and cuddling them to sleep. For Gabrielle, life is all about spreading love and joy with her adorable canine companions by her side.
