‘Poochapalooza’ fundraiser scheduled for Sept. 27
Costume contests, blessing of the pets, food, music, vendors and more
There will be an afternoon for the dogs next weekend in Cape Coral, as an inaugural event takes place while also raising money for the city’s local shelter.
The Ladies Auxiliary of Saint Katharine Drexel Parish in Cape Coral is hosting “Poochapalooza,” where there will be contests for K-9s, a blessing of pets, as well as food and entertainment.
The event takes place Sept. 27 on parish grounds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On-site will be food trucks, music, several pet and craft vendors, as well as Cape Coral Animal Shelter dogs that are up for adoption.
Contests include “best dressed,” “funniest costume,” and “best pet trick.”
“This is going to be a fun, community event, that will also benefit the Cape Coral Animal Shelter,” said event organizer Kat Donahue. “We’re also aiming to spread awareness about their purpose and mission, while putting on a really fun event for the community.”
Contests are limited to 25 dogs in each category. Owners must complete registration which includes a $10 entry fee, provide proof of current vaccinations, and bring one can of puppy food that will go to the shelter.
Vendors for the event include a dog bakery, a dog sitting service, a K-9 training demonstration, dog accessories, and more. A pet parade for the contests will take place in front of a panel of judges. There will be awards for first and second place in each category.
Director of CCAS, Liz McCauley, will be present to speak about the shelter, what it means to be a pet owner, and have some CCAS residents to meet with prospective new owners.
“There are a lot of dog owners in Cape Coral and at our parish,” Donahue said, adding that she previously organized similar events in the northeast before relocating to Florida. “People love their pets and to show off their pets. They spend a lot of time, and love, and care. It’s just a good way to bring people together with the love of animals being a common denominator.”
Donahue is a passionate animal lover herself, having worked for shelters as well as a vet tech in the past.
“Animals, we are their lifeline,” she said. “We are their support system. When you commit to an animal, you commit to them for their lifetime. They need and depend on us, and they give so much back to us. They’re giving and loving, and we need to give back to them.”
Donahue said the organization hopes it turns into an annual event put on by the SKD Ladies Auxiliary.
St. Katharine Drexel Parish is at 1922 SW 20th Ave.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com