Fall Furfest returns to Manahawkin Animal Shelter

MANAHAWKIN, NJ – Pets will also have the chance to strut this Halloween.

After being canceled last year due to the pandemic, the annual Fall Furfest and Halloween Pet Parade will return to the Southern Ocean County Animal Facility on Saturday, October 23 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“This event has become such a special occasion for pet owners to dress up their pets and celebrate Halloween with their 4-legged friends,” said Gerry P. Little, Ocean County Commissioner, liaison with the Ocean County Board of Health. “The event is so much fun for the whole family, whether it’s joining the parade or just going out to watch.”

Prizes and ribbons will be awarded in the categories of the best, funniest, cutest, scariest and most original costumes. Parade participants must arrive at 1:00 p.m. to register their pet. The costumed parade starts at 1:30 p.m.

“We love to remind people that the event has always been more than just a costume parade. It’s also an effective way to promote our pet stores and all of the wonderful cats and dogs we have available for adoption,” said Brian Lippai, a public information officer for the Ocean County Department of Health. “If you are serious about adopting a cat or dog, come watch the parade and stop by to visit all of our adorable pets in search of their forever home.”

Animals at the Ocean County Animal Facility are sterilized, neutered, microchipped and given age-appropriate vaccines.

The Southern Ocean County Animal Facility, operated by the Ocean County Department of Health, is located at 360 Haywood Rd. In Manahawkin. OCHD also operates a second pet store at 615 Freemont Ave. to Jackson.