Boca Raton’s ‘Howl-O-Ween’ Promises a Tail-Wagging Day for Dogs and Their Humans Saturday

A dog in Halloween costume. (Putful.com / Flickr Creative Commons)

Dogs and their humans are invited to dress up, show off and sit, stay and celebrate at Boca Raton’s first Howl-O-Ween event this weekend.

The free, family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 24, at Countess de Hoernle Park off Spanish River Boulevard. Costumes are encouraged. The city says the inaugural event will feature a photo booth, crafts, a hydration station, community partner booths and sponsor giveaways. The morning’s schedule includes three headliners:

• 9:30 a.m.: Muttville Comix Dog Show
• 10:30 a.m.: Howl-O-Weener Dog Race Contest
• 11:30 a.m.: Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest

The race is a “short-legged showdown” for dachshunds, who will dash to the finish line in heats. The fastest pups advance for a shot at the title of Howl-O-Weener Champion. Lazy Dog will officiate. The winner receives a gift certificate to Woofie’s of Delray Beach and a new dog bed from Paw Royal. Second- and third-place finishers each get a Woofie’s gift certificate. Organizers encourage owners to pre-register their dachshunds.

The costume contest has five categories: Best Overall, Best Dog & Owner Combo, Best Pack Costume, Most Creative and Funniest Costume. Prizes include trophies, gift baskets, certificates and custom-made apparel. Under the contest’s one-award rule, a dog or entry can win only one category so more participants get recognized.

Treats Galore!

A dog in Halloween costume. (Flickr Creative Commons)

Attendees can stroll the Trail of Treats, where vendors and community partners will hand out goodies for dogs and their owners. Free reusable event bags from sponsor DoodyCalls will be available while supplies last. Jake’s Pet Food & Supplies is giving away $10 store gift cards, and Lumi Dental is handing out free collapsible dog bowls while supplies last.

Dogs can also get some pampering. Mod Dog Salon is hosting the Sit, Stay, Chill Lounge, offering a free teeth cleaning or ear cleaning, at the owner’s choice. Woofie’s of Delray Beach is running the Paw Spa with free nail trimming. The city says the services depend on each dog’s willingness and ability to take part safely and cooperatively.

Everglades Angels Dog Rescue, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue and Just Bartlett Animal Rescue are event partners.

Rules & Regs

A dog in Halloween costume. (Flickr Creative Commons)

Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners must clean up after their pets. Bag stations and trash cans will be available. Owners are responsible for their dogs’ actions and for any damage or injury they cause. People who violate the rules may be asked to leave.

Countess de Hoernle Park is not technically a dog park, and dogs are not allowed on the athletic fields. They must stay within the event space. Pets other than dogs, sick dogs and dogs in heat are not permitted. Fireworks, firecrackers, air horns and other loud items that could startle dogs are also prohibited.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The city’s mobile water unit will provide free filtered water, and attendees are asked to bring reusable bottles. Restrooms are in the Athletic Facility building. In case of severe weather, attendees should follow directions from emergency personnel and event staff. Questions can be directed to the Community Events tent or to city staff in purple Howl-O-Ween shirts.