MOBILE, Ala. — Adoptable dogs, a costume contest and live music are on tap this Sunday, Oct. 11, when Krewe de Rescue hosts its Howl-o-ween Extravaganza at the Merry Widow on Conception Street in downtown Mobile to raise money for local rescue dogs.
The “spooky fun” celebration runs from 1 to 4 p.m. and is aimed at animal lovers of all kinds, whether they are looking to add a dog to the family or simply want to support the cause.
What to expect
Organizers have lined up a full afternoon of activities:
- Adoptable dogs: Dogs in need of homes will be on site, giving guests the chance to meet them in person.
- Raffles: Raffle drawings will help raise money for the rescue effort.
- Live music: Performers will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon.
- Food: A food truck from Semmes House of Pizza will be on hand.
- Costume contest: Meteorologist John Nodar will serve as a guest judge.
Nodar, a familiar face to many Gulf Coast residents who follow local weather forecasts, will trade the forecast for the judges’ table to help pick the contest winners.
Supporting local rescue
The event is put on by members of Krewe de Rescue, and proceeds benefit animal rescue efforts for local dogs. Fundraisers like this one help rescue groups cover the many costs involved in caring for animals before they are adopted, which commonly include veterinary exams, vaccinations, spaying and neutering, food, medications and supplies.
Many rescue organizations rely heavily on volunteers and on foster homes, where dogs live with families temporarily until a permanent home is found. Community events that bring adoptable dogs face-to-face with potential adopters are one of the most effective ways rescues find those permanent homes.
Thinking about adopting?
For guests who fall in love with one of the dogs on Sunday, animal welfare groups generally recommend thinking through a few questions before bringing a new pet home:
- Does the dog’s size, age and energy level fit your household and lifestyle?
- Does your lease or homeowners association allow dogs, and are there any breed or size restrictions?
- Will the dog get along with children or other pets already in the home?
- Are you prepared for ongoing costs such as food, routine veterinary care, grooming and supplies?
- Who in the household will handle daily walks, feeding and training?
Rescue volunteers are typically glad to answer questions about a particular dog’s temperament, history and needs, so attendees should not hesitate to ask.
Halloween safety tips for pet owners
Because the event kicks off the Halloween season, it is also a good reminder of the precautions veterinarians and animal welfare groups commonly recommend for pets this time of year:
- Keep candy out of reach. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs, and the sugar substitute xylitol, found in some sugar-free candies and gum, can be especially dangerous.
- Choose costumes carefully. A pet costume should not restrict movement, breathing, sight or hearing, and should not have small pieces that can be chewed off and swallowed. Never leave a costumed pet unsupervised.
- Watch the door on Halloween night. Frequent knocks and visitors can stress pets, and an open door is an easy escape route. Some owners keep pets in a quiet room during trick-or-treating.
- Make sure pets can be identified. A collar with an ID tag and an up-to-date microchip increase the chances that a lost pet makes it home.
- Be careful with decorations. Candles, jack-o’-lanterns and electrical cords can pose hazards to curious pets.
Event details
- What: Krewe de Rescue Howl-o-ween Extravaganza
- When: Sunday, Oct. 11, 1 to 4 p.m.
- Where: The Merry Widow, Conception Street, downtown Mobile
- Highlights: Adoptable dogs, raffles, live music, a costume contest judged in part by meteorologist John Nodar, and food from Semmes House of Pizza
- Benefits: Local dog rescue
