By Jessica Ferrera, Staff Writer
On Oct. 25, the historic squares and streets of Savannah were populated with dragons, cheerleaders, lions, pirates and more. These creatures and monsters were also accompanied by furry friends, dogs, in honor of Savannah’s annual Wag-o-ween.
The annual fundraising event celebrated its ninth year this year. With all proceeds going to local pet rescue agencies, it was a great cause for the local community. Anyone and their pet could join in on the fun. Starting on the 600 block of Abercorn, people bought $5 wristbands and were given maps and goody bags to carry the treats.
Over 100 businesses contributed to the event along the streets of Savannah. Booths and activities were set up in designated squares.
Susanne Mooney, a member of the Retired Retrievers Rescue said, “We love it here. Seeing all of the dogs and spreading the word of our rescue is amazing.”
The Retired Retrievers Rescue was just one of the many rescue organizations at the event. All were having a blast with their dogs and even walking around dogs that are up for adoption or need foster homes.
One booth in Wright Square sold the year’s Wag-o-ween T-shirt designed by Diana Smith. But there were also other creative ways to get families and their pets together.
With different props such as a backdrop, feather boas, oversized sunglasses and mustaches, humans and dogs could dress up and get a picture taken from their own phone. Tons of families and pets sat down to take silly pictures.
“This is our first year coming. It’s fantastic and has been a lot of fun. Our dogs are exhausted but they have tons of treats for later, so that’s nice,” said Tony Thompson and Jerry Dotson. Their dogs Emma Gene and Mabel sported cute costumes and had a blast.
Even though hundreds of people and their dogs knew about the event and joined in on the fun, it was apparent that it was a surprise for most!
While some visitors were confused, shocked, or even in love with the outrageous costumes on dogs, the ones who were a part of the fundraising event thought it normal. In fact, some families dressed up along with their dogs, making it a huge family event.
“This is our second time coming. Last year we didn’t dress up, but we wanted to this year. So not only are my dogs looking funny but we are too,” said Paula Higgins, who was visiting Savannah to enjoy the weather and bring her dogs Guinness and Harley. The two were dressed as pirates, with eye patches and all.
Because Wag-o-ween was held in the Historic District of Savannah, it meant that tons of tourists and visitors were able to see a different side of Savannah, the side that celebrates our love for dogs.
This year was a success, bringing in tons of happy, furry friends and their owners. But greatest of all was seeing the local rescues and businesses getting to spread their name and hopefully finding homes for some loving animals.
