BY SIERRA MARTIN
5th annual Barktoberfest raises funds and promotes animal adoption in Boerne The Boerne Main Plaza was taken over by dogs of every breed, shape and size for the 5th annual Barktoberfest. The details
Hosted by the Hill Country Animal League, the free event took place Oct. 18. Owners and their furry friends had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, costume contest and doggy dashes. Rebecca S. Forrest, Hill Country Animal League executive director, said the organization created Barktoberfest to bring an animal-focused event to Boerne and give adoption agencies the opportu- nity to interact with residents. “The turnout from the community was astro- nomical,” Forrest said. Vendors were set up along the lawn selling dog treats, animal accessories and other community services. A closer look Forrest said the Silent Auction was very successful this year, with businesses across the community donating gift cards. All the auction proceeds go toward spay and neuter services at the Hill Country Animal League. “We doubled our capacity from last year to this year for silent auction items,” Forrest said. Multiple adoption agencies were also present at the event, hoping to nd forever homes for displaced cats and dogs in the Boerne area. Charming Pet Rescue, Helotes Humane Society, Boerne Animal Shelter and Cafe House Animal Rescue were among those in attendance. Forrest said she anticipates about 26 animals to be adopted from the event. The animal league is already looking forward to the 6th Annual Barktoberfest on October 17, 2026. About the nonpro t The Hill Country Animal League is a local nonpro t that works to provide a ordable spay and neuter services in the area. The organization carries out its mission through community donations, fundraising e orts such as Barktoberfest, and proceeds from its thrift store, located at 115 W. Bandera Road in Boerne. “Our costs [for spay and neuter services] are more than half of what you’re going to nd elsewhere. We do between 40 and 60 surgeries a day ... that is our niche, that is our specialty,” Forrest said.
Several dog owners brought their creativity to the 5th annual Barktoberfest costume contest.
PHOTOS BY SIERRA MARTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
Daisy, a ve-year-old long-haired Dachshund, competed in the costume contest.
Chloe participated in the Barktoberfest costume contest by dressing up as Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street.
Lilo, a Black Scottish Terrier, and Elta, a West Highland White Terrier, dressed up as characters from Toy Story.
Boo, the seven-year-old mini Labradoodle, competed in the costume contest with a remote-controlled tank.
Onyx, a certi ed therapy dog through PAWS for Service, competed in a dragon costume and castle.
Neo, pictured in the boat, and Echo (left) had “Jaws” themed costumes.
19
BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Powered by FlippingBook