The Fifth Annual Paws in the Park Festival on October 22 was a howling success. Hundreds of people turned out to participate in and watch the festivities that kicked off with the pet parade that went through downtown Blue Ridge. The majority of pets were dogs, but there was also a pig, a goat, a couple of alpacas and a few llamas. And for the first time at Paws, there was a ferret dressed as a Tootsie Roll.

Harlee and Chigger

After the parade, attendees gathered for the “Blessing of the Pets,” and then everyone made their way to the stage to watch the showcase of “Adoptable Dogs.” By the end of the festivities at 2:00, most of the dogs were adopted.

The pet costume contest began around noon, and it was something to see. All of the animals were extremely well-mannered as they were paraded across the stage in front of the four judges. The winning contestants were Cricket the South African Boer Goat who won an Honorable Mention Award; Fifth Place went to the Tootsie Roll Ferret; Fourth Place winner was the German Shepherd dressed as a banana split; the Third Place award went to the Llama dressed as a Blues Brother; Second Place was awarded to Charlie the Scarecrow; and the Grand Prize winner was Stewart the Fireman.

Between events, festival goers browsed the various vendors who offered food and beverages, pet goods and odds and ends. Pet and people photos were also offered with adorable Autumn-themed props.

The festivities wrapped up around 2:00 pm with the announcement of the raffle winners. Raffle prizes included pet gift baskets and a painting valued at 400.00.

Paws in the Park was a fun and heartwarming event enjoyed by all. There were touching animal rescue stories that left the listeners with moist eyes. Cricket the goat was hit by a truck and left in the road; after some surgeries, she was able to walk again. Chigger the Boston Terrier was electrocuted as a puppy; she was resuscitated by her “daddy.” A boxer was nursed back to health after it’s abusive owner got rid of her.

I look forward to next year’s Paws in the Park. Even non-pet owners can enjoy this festival. I encourage everyone to check it out.