Pet-Tober Fest set to make a return
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Pet-Tober Fest set to make a return
By Shane Gilreath
[email protected]
The annual Pet-Tober Fest will return on October 18th at Tractor Supply in Oneida, celebrating its fifth year of Halloween fun for families and their pets. The event, which organizers hope make family memories and bring community togetherness for Scott County, had 43 pets participate last year, some fully costumed while a number more came without. While costumes are encouraged, they’re not required. For Tractor Supply, what began as an idea to bring people and pets together has now become one of Scott County’s most unique fall traditions.
“I moved here from Florida six years ago and noticed Scott County didn’t have much going on that involved pets,” said the event’s organizer, Mike Greenwood. “So I created Pet-Tober Fest to bring the community together for some fun while also raising awareness about the incredible need for pet adoptions and fosters.”
That mission has only grown in importance, as, according to Greenwood, every adoption group within 50 miles of Oneida is currently at capacity, caring for abandoned and abused animals. Pet-Tober Fest not only gives these organizations a chance to share their stories and promote adoptions but also helps inspire local residents to step up and make a difference in the lives of helpless animals.
“This event will be the biggest pet themed event anywhere around,” Greenwood told SCN.
Last year’s event drew hundreds of attendees – including those uniquely costumed pets, who competed in the event’s costume contest, dressed as everything from superheroes and princesses to farm animals and reptiles. “We’ve had dogs, cats, horses, lizards, snakes, goats, rabbits, and even chickens dressed up in costume,” Greenwood said. “This year, there’s a rumor a kangaroo might show up. I’m still waiting to see if someone brings a cow or a pig one day.”
Gratefully, the event continues to grow – by roughly 20 percent per year, according to organizers – as families seek to adopt new members to the family menagerie. Beyond community fun and lighthearted competition, Pet-Tober Fest offers something special: a heartwarming sense of magnanimity and community. “My favorite part is seeing all the smiles on people’s faces,” Greenwood shared “Even those who don’t win still leave with a gift and have a great time. I love small-town events – you never know what people will bring.”
From costumed pets to adoption booths and family-friendly fun, Pet-Tober Fest looks to become a staple of Oneida’s fall events. It’s a reminder that pets are more than companions – for those who participate at Tractor Supply, it’s clear that pets are cherished parts of daily lives. “I enjoy bringing people together and having some fun,” Greenwood said. “Pets are part of our families and need to be included.”
As Pet-Tober Fest marks its fifth year, the celebration continues to strive to bring about joy – one pet at a time.
This event will include pet adoption opportunities through MoCo Mutts animal rescues and a Farmer’s Market, showcasing Yoder’s Amish Donuts and Bandit’s Famous Funnel Cakes. The pet costume contest will begin at noon. Farmer’s market opens at 8am.
