By Jack Marflak
Arlington Depot Park, just off Midland Avenue between Elm and Forest streets, was the place to be on Saturday, Oct. 24. The square-shaped park, nestled alongside the railroad tracks, was filled with families, children and, of course, dogs, dogs — lots of dogs.”
Most, if not all, of our four-legged friends were decked out in colorful and creative Halloween costumes. It was a festive scene that delighted the many spectators that filled the park.
The Kearny Doggie Halloween PAWrade and Festival, featuring the 12th annual Doggie Halloween Costume Contest, has become one of Kearny’s most popular and eagerly anticipated community events.
This year’s celebration, sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ), The Kearny Dog Walker and the K-9 Corner/Bone Appetit Spa and Dog Barkery, drew hundreds of spectators who came to enjoy the costumes, the festivities and the community spirit. Judging by the smiles and excitement throughout the park, it’s hard to imagine anyone went home disappointed.
Among the many vendor tents that completely lined the perimeter of the park were those representing PetSmart Charities Adoption tent, Linc and Pet Bakery, Arlington Dog and Cat Hospital, Fly Away Home Rescue, the Kearny Department of Public Health, the Junior Woman’s Club of Arlington, Girl Scout Unit 14, Kearny Prevention Coalition and many more.
For the first time this year, the Kearny Health Department was on hand at the PAWrade to offer same-day dog licensing. Kearny residents whose dogs were not yet licensed could obtain a license right at the event, allowing their four-legged friends to participate in the Doggie Halloween Costume Contest.
The KUEZ tent had a beautifully designed basket of dog treats for a free raffle. When asked how she thought the annual event went this year, KUEZ Coordinator Linda D’Isa said, “Honestly, I felt like it was the best event we have ever had. There were so many great participants, and so many new participants that it turned out to be a perfect day.”
Adding to that perfect day, everyone that passed by the Kearny Library tent saw Clifford the Big Red Dog shaking hands and making new friends. Adults and children alike, couldn’t wait to get a photo with Clifford. Library Director Josh Humphrey was handing out free children’s books, including titles featuring Clifford the Big Red Dog.
Erin Ferrier of The Kearny Dog Walker had a photo booth where pet owners could pose with their four-legged companions. “The photo booth proved to be such a hit.” Ferrier said, “We went through the Polaroid photos at just past the first hour mark. I thought I was prepared with 58 photos but we wound up seeing over 150 people at the tent.” She added, “Even a cat dropped by, which was an unexpected surprise.”
There were small dogs, big dogs and every size in between; there were boxers, retrievers, pugs, shepherds and bulldogs. There were goldendoodles and labradoodles. Just about every breed imaginable seemed to be represented, with the dogs dressed in their Halloween finest.
One of the girl scouts at the troop’s tent looked remarkably like Dolly Parton, and even her dog was decked out in a pink scarf and a glitter-trimmed pink cowgirl hat.
And Scooby-Doo and Velma made an appearance, accompanied by one of their furry friends.
At the center of the park stood a reviewing stand for the canine contestants, complete with scarecrows and Halloween decorations. A band warmed up the crowd as the competition was about to begin. The judges, sitting in a row in front of the stand, were ready for the procession of furry competitors. The stage was set; the only question was which pooch would win.
Almazen Eco-Friendly Products/Photo by Kearny Life
And the winner is … well, not so fast! The top dog has yet to be announced. But rest assured, Kearny Life will have the breaking news as soon as the winning pooch is revealed. Stay tuned!
