You better save the date because Orange County Animal Services has announced the date for the eighth annual rescue appreciation event Barktoberfest. Join the festivities on Sunday, November 17, 2019 at Lake Eola from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free public event features local pet rescue organizations showcasing animals available for adoption, food trucks, local pet-related vendors and a fun-filled day for everyone in the family.
Barktoberfest is the shelter’s annual rescue appreciation event that serves to celebrate the partnership between OCAS and the rescue community. Animal Services is currently partnered with more than 100 rescue groups across the state that aid in the recovery and adoption of homeless animals. Many of these pets will be present at Barktoberfest and available for adoption through the individual rescue groups.
“The relationship we have cultivated with our rescue partners means everything to our organization, employees and volunteers,” said Melissa Nicholson, rescue coordinator for Animal Services. “Orange County Animal Services is this area’s only open admission shelter and we receive an average of 50 homeless pets each and every day. The majority are healthy, friendly and quickly scooped up for adoption. For those with special needs, for example a pet that’s been hit by a car or one that hasn’t been well socialized with people, we turn to our rescue partners and rely on their expertise to tackle these tough cases. They are heroes for animals that would otherwise not have a chance.”
Additional services include:
- Free rabies vaccines
- Free microchipping
- Low-cost vaccines, canine heartworm tests and heartworm preventative medication through the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando
- Photo booth and pet photography
Attendees are invited to bring their own dog to join in the fun. Animal Services requires all pet attendees to be leashed and safely controlled.
Learn more about Barktoberfest and be sure to click “attend” on the Orange County Animal Services Facebook event page.
