Put Your Paws Up: Pier Village Event for the Dogs

Pier Village in Long Branch went straight to the dogs on Saturday, and everyone seemed happy.

The Purr ‘n Pooch Foundation for Animals hosted the free family and dog friendly  “Paws for a Cause."  The day celebrated man’s best friend by including Fido in various activities during the daylong event. Guests could raise a paw for animals by making donations to support the mission of the non-profit Purr ‘n Pooch Foundation for Animals.

“This is a great day for animal awareness,” said Purr ‘n Pooch President Betsy Palazzo. “Purr ‘n Pooch Foundation raises funds to support many of the local animal organizations. To see so many people come out in support of animals, and to have such a wonderful day for it is terrific.”

Executive Director of the Monmouth County SPCA Laurie Garrison said, “The SPCA is very happy to be here today and to bring awareness to the plight of animals in the community. Our goal this year is to save 5,000 lives and at an event such as this it is great to see so many people coming out in support.”

Aside from the children’s activities, canine fashion show and doggie yoga, there was a special premiere . The animated short was a joint project of the Purr ‘n Pooch Foundation for Animals and , in support of the foundation’s educational initiatives to promote the humane treatment and adoption of animals.

This spring, children ages 5 to 10 from across Monmouth County were invited to submit their original pet and animal stories or drawings to the “Tails of Love” contest. 

Winners were Jacey Schnappauf, 8, of Oceanport, Katarina Barc, 9, of Colts Neck, Camryn Osofsky, 7, of Rumson, Jake Connoly, 9, of Lincroft, Dylan Palmeri, 7,  of Rumson, AJ Sollecito, 7, of Little Silver and Sabrina Sciarappa, 7,  of Eatontown.  The winners worked collaboratively to create the film over the course of several production workshops at Small Factory’s studio in Fair Haven.