LOIS KINDLE PHOTOS
Scores of canines, a couple of cats and their owners turned out last Saturday for the Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort’s annual Halloween party for pets. By the looks of all who attended, it was a howling success.
Costumes were optional, but many of the four-legged attendees (and a few of the two-legged ones) came dressed as everything from fairies, princesses and ballerinas to pumpkins, alligators and a few superheroes. While their human counterparts checked out vendors and raffle items, ate lunch and listened to lively music played by DJ Seth “Doogie” Dugan, the dogs cavorted free as birds, getting acquainted with each other and collecting pats and occasional treats.
Highlights of the event were the annual gathering of C.A.R.E. alumni and the ever-popular costume party. This year’s contest winner was Bella Van Keuren, an 11-year-old Yorkshire terrier mix, who came dressed as a biker like his “mom,” Barb Van Keuren.
Organizers estimated attendance at more than 150 people.
Boo Bash is a major fundraiser hosted by C.A.R.E., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization run almost entirely by volunteers. The Ruskin shelter provides care and a temporary home for neglected, abused and unwanted cats and dogs.
This year’s event raised $1,876.
Lois Kindle
Lady, 4, an Australian shepherd/sheltie mix owned by Nitra Palmer of Brandon.
Ann Walsh of Ruskin, holds her 4-year-old Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix, Charlie, who came to this year’s Boo Bash dressed as a cowhand. Walsh recently adopted the dog from C.A.R.E.
Ann Walsh of Ruskin, holds her 4-year-old Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix, Charlie, who came to this year’s Boo Bash dressed as a cowhand. Walsh recently adopted the dog from C.A.R.E.
