Have a Howling Good Time this Weekend

Schnauzers dressed as Snoopy, Chihuahuas in clown garb, or Dalmatians with dinosaur tails. We're not sure who you'll run into at the Chelmsford Dog Association's inaugural Howl'ween event on Saturday, Oct. 16th, but the possibilities are endless.

As part of their efforts to raise money and awareness for a safe, off-leash dog park in the town, the association will host an event full of costumes, talent contests, and family fun at Parlee Farm's corn maize from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m..

Vivian Merrill, a member of the Association and an organizer of the event, said, "We'll host a costume contest for dogs and their owners, hotdogs for lunch, kids games, pet photos, a silent auction, and a wide variety of vendors, crafters, and shelters."

A small planning committee and many volunteers have been working to make the event a success, and they're already taking ideas for their next event.

"We have received several requests to open it up to other kinds of pets, particularly cats," Merrill said, "so we could follow that lead next year."

"Since this is our first time hosting this event, we will learn some things and be able to offer other activities in the future," she said.

Many hours of research and organization have gone into the event since planning began in June, but the committee is excited to see the results,.

"The purpose of this event is for people to have fun," said Merrill, "and if we can raise some funds to build the dog park, then everyone wins."

Merrill also has a few parts she's specifically looking forward to.

"I've looked forward to seeing the dogs in costume at other events, but we've put so much time into planning the event," she said. "It'll be rewarding to watch people having a good time, and supporting the vendors at the trade fair, and supporting the future dog park."

That future dog park is gaining a large amount of support in the town, Merrill said.

"Anyone can come to our meetings, and some of our members do not have dogs, but say they may get one in the future," she said.

Merrill, a dog-owner herself, will have to enjoy the contests from the sidelines this year. 

"This time, our dogs will not be participating." she said. "We will be very busy making sure the show goes on. Perhaps next year."

If you can't make it to Howl'ween on Saturday, Merrill gladly shared advice on having fun with your favorite canine.

"As long as they are leashed and you clean up after them, the world is your playground," she said. "Dog Fancy magazine ran an article in their June edition that listed many dog park locations all around the country, and they are gaining popularity in many towns and cities all over."

Merrill also said that groups in Billerica and Nashua are discussing developing dog parks for their four-legged citizens as well. Lowell's park, run by Lowell Unleashed is hoping to exapand the area due to its popularity.

If you would like more information on the Chelmsford Dog Association, you can contact the association by e-mail.

And if anyone gets a little out of hand on Saturday - Merrill has a surprise for them.

"McGruff the Crime Dog may make an appearance," she said.