Pet-related events are plentiful during the fall season

Adorable cats and kittens like the one above are available at the Randolph Animal Pound. Check out the pound's special kitten adoption on Saturday, Oct. 23, from noon to 4 p.m. at Morris K9 Campus, 1 Aspen Drive, Randolph.

Morris County, and other nearby, animal shelters and rescue groups are in full wing with their fall events. Here are some happenings for this weekend and in the week ahead:

• Dance to the sounds of the '40s during a dinner dance on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Barn at Hillside Park, 146 Lake Iliff Road, Andover, to benefit One Step Closer Animal Rescue (O.S.C.A.R.). Cost is $25 per adult/$15 per child ages 6 to 15 in advance; $30 per adult/$20 per child ages 6 to 15 at the door. No children under age 6. There will be a DJ and dancing; B.Y.O.B. beer and wine only. There will be a hot and cold buffet. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. Make checks payable to O.S.C.A.R. and mail to P.O. Box 248, Sparta, NJ 07871, or visit www.oscarcanimalrescue.org, click the donate button and write, "Dinner Dance," in the memo.

• A special kitten adoption will be sponsored by Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound on Sunday, Oct. 23, from noon to 4 p.m. during the Fall Festival at the Morris K9 Campus, 1 Aspen Drive, Randolph. Look for the Randolph Animal Pound table. A special pet adoption will take place Saturday, Oct. 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Randolph Animal Pound, 1345 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph. Adoption fee will be $50. For more information about either event, call 973-989-7090 or e-mail Doggie54@optonline.net.

Go 'Fetch' lunch or dinner at one of two canine-themed restaurants

On Saturday, I took a drive to Warwick, N.Y., to go apple picking. After visiting Applwood Orchards and Winery, I stopped to browse some of the shops and antiques stores in town. Looking for a place to grab a quick lunch, I stopped at the Fetch Bar & Grill at 48 Main St. in Warwick. Unfortunately, having just opened, the proprietor informed me that the restaurant was not open for lunch and is only serving dinner temporarily.

As an animal lover, the canine-themed concept of this eatery was so appealing, that I plan on dining there soon. I just wanted to let fellow dog owners know what it's all about. This isn't the only location, either. There is another Fetch Bar & Grill at 1649 Third Ave. in New York City.

So what makes this restaurant so unique? Not only does it offer an appealing menu offering a varied menu American comfort foods, Fetch Bar & Grill has a mission --to support dog rescue efforts. Both restaurants' walls are adorned with hundreds of photos of their customer's furry friends, with more added daily, plus colorful prints of various dog breeds.

One table along a wall of the Warwick restaurant's is dubbed the "Dog House." Twenty percent of the patrons' tab at that table is donated to animal rescue efforts. Both locations hold weekly Sunday Brunch adoption events (for dogs and cats). In Manhattan, the restaurant has an Animal Haven and Canine Rescue Adopt a Dog Wall.

Here is a video featuring the original Fetch Bar & Grill in Manhattan. Do homeless dogs a favor and check this place out.

Halloween events guarantee a howling good time for people and their pets

With Halloween just around the corner, it's time to start howling at the moon -- well, not literally, but a good way to start having some holiday fun is at the Boonton Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Parade and Contest on Saturday, Oct. 15, starting from Upper Plane Street parking lot in Boonton and ending at Santa Land (North and Main streets). The annual event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Cost is $5 per entry, which includes a doggie goodie bag). Eleventh Hour Rescue and Best Friends Grooming are hosting the event.

Here is the schedule: 11 a.m. to noon, registration; noon, parade starts; 12:30 p.m., parade ends; 12:45 p.m., costume contest begins; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., adoptions, games, children's activities, pet photos and more will take place.

The event benefits Eleventh Hour Rescue, a volunteer-based nonprofit, that saves dogs from death row. Eleventh Hour Rescue is made up of dedicated individuals who believe that innocent pets deserve love and a place to live where they are honored and cared for. No dog deserves to die simply because they do not have a home. Visit www.ehrdogs.org to see all of EHR's adoptable dogs and cats, upcoming events and to learn more about the organization.



Another holiday-themed event is the "All Howl's Eve Dog Parade." This annual event will  take place Sunday, Oct. 16, in Morristown (meeting at Town Hall parking lot, Franklin Street) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rain date is Oct. 23. Registration is from 10 to 11 a.m.. Cost to march is $5 and includes a goodie bag.



Pets and their people will march in costume down South Street to the Green. Prizes will be awarded to the five best costume winners. Special guests will include Rufus, the 2005 Westminster Dog Show winner and a variety of adoptable pets from Randolph Animal Shelter. Proceeds of the event benefit a local shelter.

Planning ahead, there's the Coming Home Rescue Inc.'s Halloween Party on Sunday, Oct. 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pawsitive Experience, 114 Beach St., Rockaway. There will be a variety of activities, including a hot dog toss, Snoopy Says game, Ring Around the Doggie, costume parade, Tarot Card readings for dogs and people, pumpkin bowling, cider and donuts, agility area and take-home paw print card. Author David Doyle will sign copies of his book, "Blood Works."

Admission is $5 per adult. Children and dogs will be admitted free. There will be prizes for best pet costumes. A pet adoption will be held and there will be a 50-50 raffle. All proceeds will benefit Coming Home Rescue Inc. Pet photos will be available for $8 each; $13 for two. Reserve a time slot now by e-mailing to courtneycominghome@gmail.com. Walk-ins also welcome.

Furever Home Dog Rescue in Randolph has a pair of faithful friends for adoption

The weekend is nearing and it's time to make those "what to do" plans now. Thankfully, the Morris County area is filled with places to go and things to do. The most worthwhile activities are those that help a good cause. Like those events planned by volunteers and staff to benefit local animal shelters and animal rescue groups.

Many of these family friendly events include participation by pets. Don't have a pet yet? Camille Montagna Oakie, founder of Furever Home Dog Rescue in Randolph has two particularly cute puppies available for adoption as a pair, plus a weekend event to benefit her group's rescue efforts. The event is a multi-family garage sale on Friday, Oct. 7, from noon to 3 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 18 Orchard Street, Randolph. Meet Ben and Beth below:

Ben and Beth are Labrador Retriever mixes about 5 months old. Ben's coat is a mix of white and black; Beth has a beautiful soft black coat. They have the sweetest puppy dog eyes and look at those ears. Ben and Beth are happy, sweet, playful pups and they are living in a foster home. Their foster mom says the duo are affectionate pups who love to cuddle and love giving puppy kisses. Ben and Beth enjoy playing with their toys, playing in the yard with the foster family's children and their dog. The pups are very good on a leash when being walked and are on their way to be house trained. Ben and Beth are so good together and bonded, that we would like to find a furever home for the two together. If you want to add a lot of happiness to your home, adopt Ben and Beth. They are an amazing pair. If interested in adopting, e-mail FureverHomeRescue@att.net and request an adoption application.

 

 

Find a warm, fuzzy friend during Adopt-A-Dog Month

Honey is a young Pit Bull-mix female available at Randolph Animal Pound.

Did you know that October is the American Humane Association's "Adopt-A-Dog Month"? Local shelters hope everyone gets in the spirit of the event by adopting a shelter dog to experience the joy of pet ownership.

Yes, it's a lot of responsibility to own a pet, but consider the advantages. A dog can be an exercise buddy; a confidant; a constant companion; or just a fuzzy face to greet you after a difficult day at work. That's just a few of the advantages. Here are some upcoming adoption events to begin your search.

Saturday, Oct. 8: Special pet adoption at Randolph Animal Pound, 1345 Sussex Turnpike, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adoption fee is $20 for an adult dog, older kittens and adult cats (if adopting two pets, the fee is waived for the second). All animals are spayed/neutered, de-wormed and vaccinated. Applications and references are required. Renters must have a lease agreement indicating that pets are permitted. For more information, visit www.pound.petfinder.org.

Stewart a 4-month-old male kitten in foster care.

All cats and kittens at the off-site pet adoption are from foster care.

Saturday, Oct. 8: Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound is holding a pet adoption from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Petco, 275 Route 10 East, Succasunna. If adopting two pets, adoption fee is waived for the second.  For more information, call 973-886-1485 or e-mail doggie54@optonline.net.

The following pets are available for adoption from Eleventh Hour Rescue:

This is Jake from Eleventh Hour Rescue. He is a 1-year-old, handsome, brindle, Pit Bull mix.  Although neglected as a young puppy, and in need of finding the “right” family to adopt him, he has made wonderful progress in gaining appropriate social skills.  This dog may not be for everyone, but truly is a diamond in the rough.  With the right environment, the right training, and the right owners, Jake is ready to blossom now.  He is a favorite amongst the volunteers and many of them have been working with him one-on-one to bring him along.  He has been attending adoption events on a regular basis now and really showing off all that he has learned and the adversities that he has overcome.  We are proud of his progress and want to find his forever home now.  To read more about Jake, to see all of EHR's adoptable pets, to see upcoming events, or to make a donation, visit www.ehrdogs.org  or call 973-664-0865.

This is Huck from Eleventh Hour Rescue. This 6-month-old black lab mix would be an adorable addition to any home. Full of puppy love and curiosity about his surroundings, Huck will explore everywhere he goes, and when needed, he will obey the “no” command.  Huck is very playful and enjoys a good game of “fetch” whenever he can.  He’ll chase his toy and then dutifully return it to you and drop it for another toss.  As with all youngsters, Huck is full of enthusiasm and has a lot of energy.  He will need a family that is willing to train him and harness that energy.  To read more about Huck, to see all of EHR's adoptable pets, to see upcoming events or to make a donation, visit www.ehrdogs.org  or call  973-664-0865. 

 

Autumn is the best time to adopt a furry friend

It's a great time of year to adopt a new pet. The weather will be turning cool and crisp soon, so taking walks and acclimating your new friend to the great outdoors will be enjoyable for you both. Here are some pets currently available for adoption in the Morris County area:

Speck is searching for his 'furever' home. He is approximately 4 months old and is adorable. Speck has one eye with a touch of blue in it -- hence his name. If you're interested in adopting him, e-mail FureverHomeRescue@att.net and request an adoption application.

Meet Bonito  from Eleventh Hour Rescue.  He and his other siblings, Pee Wee, Herman and Barbie are 4 months old.  They are all neutered/spayed and up to date on shots.  The foster mom reports that they are the most affectionate kittens that she has ever fostered.  They adore human companionship and purr whenever any human comes close to them.  They love to be petted and held, too.  They are very playful and get along  with other cats.  To read more about Bonito and his siblings, to see all of EHR's adoptable pets, check upcoming events or to make a donation,  visit www.ehrdogs.org  or call 973-664-0865.  

Derby from Eleventh Hour Rescue is a young, energetic, female Shepherd mix.  She has a beautiful coat of soft fur, wonderful markings and a beautiful personality to match.  She’s a girl full of love and affection and wants nothing more than to give out kisses and snuggle up by your side.  She’ll quickly roll over on her back to get some good belly rubs.  She is a total sweetheart and ready to be adopted now.  To read more about Derby, to see all of EHR's adoptable pets, check upcoming events or to make a donation, visit www.ehrdogs.org  or call 973-664-0865.

Here’s BC Sassy from Eleventh Hour Rescue.  She is a young, beautiful,and very sweet Border Collie (BC) mix.  She is 2 years old and full of love.  She is playful, but not overly excitable.  Sassy is a gentle girl who loves to swim.  On a recent field trip for some of the kennel dogs, she had a wonderful time playing in a stream, splashing about and actually doing the doggie paddle.  She is good with other dogs and walks well on the leash.  To read more about BC Sassy, to see all of EHR's adoptable pets, to check upcoming events or to make a donation,visit  www.ehrdogs.org  or call  973-664-0865

Everything from fairs to fashion shows will benefit homeless pets

Check out the Barking Beauty Pageant to benefit Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter on Sunday, Sept. 25, starting at 4 p.m. in West Orange.

It's the weekend and a variety of pet-related events are taking place now or in the weeks to come. Check out what's going on and mark your calendars:

• PUPTOBERFEST, Saturday, Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Craigmeur picnic grounds, 1175 Green Pond Road. This seventh annual event will benefit Eleventh Hour Rescue. For everyone, including their four-legged friends, this event will feature contests, paw painting, pet photos, games, contests, canine good citizen testing, food, entertainment and more. Rescued dogs will be available for adoption, too. Cost is $5, individual; $10, family. Fee is waived for previous Eleventh Hour adopters. For more information, visit www.ehrdogs.org or call 973-664-0865.
•  BARKING BEAUTY PAGEANT TO BENEFIT MT. PLEASANT ANIMAL SHELTER, Sunday, Sept. 25, 4 p.m., The Loft at the Wilshire Grand Hotel, 350 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange. Participating pooches will vie for a grand prize package, which includes a fashion photo shoot and an original Ed Hardy Pet Lounger. Category winners and runners-up will receive prizes. Celebrity judges will be Leslie Hughes, host of the "National American Miss" pageant and star of "NYC's Doggie Moms." She'll be joined by her Yorkshire terrier, SalliSue. Other celebrities will take part. For more information or to register a dog, visit www.thebarkingbeauty.com. Registration is encouraged for those planning to attend. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door. Audience members may bring leashed dogs.
•  RANDOLPH COUNTRY FAIR, Saturday, Oct. 1, rain or shine, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Town Hall Field, 502 Millbrook Ave., Randolph. Stop by the Randolph Animal Pound tent and take part in a tricky tray, kitten adoption and a dog costume with prizes for all. The contest begins at 12:30 p.m. There will be food, music, prizes and activities for children. For more information, call 973-886-1485 or e-mail Doggie54@optonline.net.
• O.S.C.A.R. DINNER DANCE, Saturday, Oct. 29, 6 to 10 p.m., The Barn at Hillside Park, 146 Iliff Road, Andover, to benefit One Step Closer Animal Rescue in Sparta. Tickets are $25, adult/$15, children 6 to 15 (in advance); $30, adult; $20, children 6 to 15 (at the door). No children under age 6. For tickets, make checks payable to: O.S.C.A.R. and mail to P.O. Box 248, Sparta, NJ 07871.

Montville Pet Parents reminds us that all kinds of animals need loving homes and are available at local shelters

When most people hear of pet adoptions, they usually assume cats and dogs in need of loving homes. But there are plenty of other breeds available for adoption, too. Consider rabbits, for example. The one shown above is just one of two now available through Montville Pet Parents at the Montville Township Animal Shelter, 86 River Road.

Montville Pet Parents Inc. (MPP) is an all-volunteer, non-profit corporation dedicated to building "a kinder world for homeless pets." Organized in 2005 by area residents concerned with the conditions at the Montville Animal Shelter facility built in the 1970s  MPP is committed to improving the township's animal shelter. Its goal is to raise money toward building a new shelter. The effort is being funded through grants from foundations and donations from individuals and corporations.

MPP also helps the homeless pets currently at the Montville Animal Shelter by providing funds for spay/neuter and the care of sick and injured animals. For more information, visit Montville Pet Parents or contact the shelter at 973-334-6410. Shelter hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday; Sunday by appointment.


Anyone interested in adopting an animal -- whether it has fur, fins or scales -- should visit Petfinder online to see a variety of pets available for adoption throughout the tri-state area. This website offers a plethora of valuable information on everything from choosing a pet and pet care to training and exercise, plus more.

Foster homes being sought for 11 puppies in jeopardy of being destroyed

First, down to some important business before I begin sharing some interesting upcoming events. Furever Home  Rescue in Randolph is seeking foster families (or individuals) to provide temporary homes for 11 shepherd mix puppies (one is shown above), approximately 7 to 8 weeks old. The rescue group is trying to keep any of these adorable animals from being destroyed. If you can help, e-mail to FureverHomeRescue@att.net. Please help spread the word.

Elmo is just one of many adorable kittens and cats available for adoption from the Randolph Animal Pound.

Looking for a new best friend? Attend one -- or two -- of the pet adoption events planned by Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound this weekend. On Saturday, Sept. 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., visit Pet Valu, 84 E. Main St., Mendham, or on Sunday, Sept. 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. attend Rockaway Day, where kittens and cats will be available for adoption. For more information, call 973-886-1485 or e-mail Doggie54@optonline.net.


Mark your calendars now for the Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound's annual Dog Costume Contest during the township's annual Country Fair, held rain or shine, on Saturday, Oct. 1. Contest registration begins at 12:30 p.m, with the contest starting at 1 p.m. Prizes will be given to all in attendance. A tricky tray also will be held to benefit Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound. Cats and kittens also will be available for adoption. For more information, call 973-886-1485 or visit Doggie54@optonline.net.

One Step Closer Animal Rescue (O.S.C.A.R.) is planning a fundraising dinner dance featuring the sounds from the 1940s to today on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Barn at Hillside Park, 146 Lake Ifliff Road, Andover. Tickets are $25 adult/$15 children ages 6 to 15 in advance;  $30 adult/$20 children ages 6 to 15 at the door. No children under age 6 will be admitted. There will be a DJ, dancing. Participants may bring their own beer or wine only. There will be a costume contest for the best-dressed (come as your favorite movie star or starlett), a hot and cold buffet starting at 6:30 p.m.and an auction. Tables of eight are available. Ticket price will not be refunded. To buy tickets, make checks payable to O.S.C.A.R. and mail to: P.O. Box 248, Sparta, NJ 07871, or visit online at www.oscaranimalrescue.org/ and click the donate button and write "dinner dance" in the memo.

There's no better time to adopt an adorable shelter animal

There's a little feeling of fall in the air today. Maybe it's just because schools are open and leaves are already littering yards (of course, that could be from recent storms), but summer is nearing an end whether we're ready or not.

Besides the beautiful foliage that comes with autumn, it's also a nice time of year for outdoor activities. I never planned it this way, but most of the pets I've adopted have come into my family during the fall season. If you're ready to adopt a pet, consider some of these beauties that are waiting to be adopted:

Chantelle is a real sweetheart! She is a labrador/hound mix about 11 to 12 weeks old. As you can see she is pretty cute!
Chantelle has an easy going personality that will fit any home. She is friendly, sweet and loves to play. She likes playing with other dogs and hanging out with people. She is so sweet, she will steal your heart.
If interested in adopting this pet, e-mail FureverHomeRescue@att.net and request an adoption application.

 

 

This is Billy. Billy is a loveable aussie/shepherd mix pup, about 5 months old. He has the most beautiful greenish eyes. And, Billy has a soft tan and white coat with some black mix in. He is a handsome boy. Billy is friendly, outgoing and would make a wonderful family pet. If you are interested in adopting him, e-mail FureverHomeRescue@att.net and request an adoption pplication.

Grumbles is very friendly. She was found on the street. Montville Pet Parents named her Grumbles because whenever you talk to her or pet her it sounds like she is complaining about everything. Grumbles is spayed/neutered, is up todate on routine shots, house-trained.Grumbles would prefer a home without other cats or dogs. She is de-clawed. Her coat is short. She is available for adoption at the Montville Animal Shelter. Call 973-334-6410.

Waffle is about 2 years old, very sweet, likes children and other dogs. He is a small adult male and is available for adoption from the Montville Animal Shelter. A Pomeranian mix, Waffle is neutered, up to date on routine shots. For more information, call 973-334-6410.

Meet Spike! A new arrival to the Randolph Pound! He is a 7 year old Pure Bred Jack Russell who is as cute as can be! He is quite the cuddler. Spike is available at the Randolph Animal Pound, 1345 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph. Call 973-989-7090.

Mutts Mania, Puptoberfest, Cash for Gold and other events will raise funds for shelter animals

Mutts Mania, the annual fundraiser for Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on Sept. 18 at Lurker Park in East Hanover.

Well, the long Labor Day weekend has passed and most schools are back in session. Don't let the return to routine spoil your fun. Thanks to local rescue organizations, the upcoming calendar is full of events that not only help raise funds for shelter pets, but guarantee a good time for the family. Here is what is coming up:

O.S.C.A.R. Pet Adoption Fundraisers: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 17, a benefit for One Step Closer Animal Rescue (OSCAR) at Inspire Fitness, 172 Woodport Road, Sparta. There will be 15-minute workout sessions for $5 per session, with all proceeds benefiting OSCAR. There will be boot camp, Zumba and more for all ages. Some animals will be available for adoption during the event. Another adoption event is taking place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 11 during the Irish Festival at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Road, Augusta. Individual donations are welcome by sending checks payable to O.S.C.A.R., P.O. Box 248, Sparta, NJ 07871. For more information, e-mail lilfurryanimals@yahoo.com.

Cash for Gold, Platinum and Sterling Silver Fundraiser: Sponsored by Montville Pet Parents from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Montville Senior House, 356 Route 202 (next to the Public Safety Building), Montville. Bring your gold, platinum or sterling silver jewelry, coins, flatware, etc., and appraisers will provide you with a private and confidential valuation. Items sold will be paid in cash (photo ID required). RSVP by Sept. 10 by calling 973-727-9959 or e-mail to info@montvillepetparents.org. Walk-ins also welcome.

"Celebrate Rockaway Day" Special Pet Adoption: 1 to 6 p.m. Sept. 18, Friends of the Randolph Animal Pound will man an information/adoption table during this annual event. For more information on the pets available, e-mail Doggie54@optonline.net, call 973-886-1485 or visit www.allorphans.petfinder.org.

Mutts Mania: Noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 18 to benefit Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter at Lurker Park (intersection of Ridgedale and Eagle Rock avenues) in East Hanover. There will be vendors, food at the Ye Olde Pub and adoptable animals from local shelters and rescue groups, including Mt. Pleasant, Noah's Ark and Liberty Humane. There will be live demonstrations, pageants and costumes, special guests and the premiere of the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter's 2012 Pet Photo Calendar. Entry to the event is $10 per adult; free for children and dogs. Calendars cost $12 and can be pre-ordered for pick up at the shelter after Sept. 18 by calling 973-386-0068. A discount microchipping clinic also will be held for $25 per dog. No appointment required.

Puptoberfest: Eleventh Hour Rescue's annual fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 24 at Craigmeur Recreation Complex, 1175 Greenpond Road,  Rockaway. The day is filled with vendors and fun activities for children, dogs and the entire family. There is entertainment, a dog fashion show, celebrity appearances, Canine Good Citizens tests and more, including pets for adoption. Vendors and tricky tray sponsors are being sought to participate. For more information, visit www.ehrdogs.org or call 973-664-0865.

Friends of Randolph Animal Pound Pet Adoption Events: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 10, a special adoption event for older kittens and cats ($50 fee includes vaccinations/spay or neuter/de-worming) at Petco, 275 Route 10 East, Succasunna. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 17, pet adoption , featuring a lot of kittens at Pet Valu, 84 E. Main St., Mendham. Through September, "Black Cat Special" at Randolph Animal Pound, 1345 Sussex Turnpike, Randolph. Any black cat/kitten (even with only spot of black on fur) will have a special $25 adoption fee (for young kittens there is also an additional spay deposit). Anyone adopting two pets of any color, will have the second adoption fee waived. Hours are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays (closed Sundays and holidays). For more information, call 973-989-7090.