Barktoberfest Wags its Way to Lake Eola Park

Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) hosted their 2018 Barktoberfest on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. The signature, rescue-appreciation event celebrates the partnership between OCAS and the rescue community and helps match homeless pets with loving, forever homes.

Now in its seventh year, the event welcomed more than 10,000 residents and 15 local rescue partners with a variety of breeds available for adoption, including Pugs, Boxers, Basset Hounds and more. Many of the pets from the rescue partners originated from OCAS.

“Our rescue partners make a huge difference in shelter pets lives,” said Kristin Tsukamoto, Rescue Coordinator of Orange County Animal Services. “Barktoberfest is our way of saying thank you to these rescue groups for their hard work, love and dedication.”

OCAS currently works with more than 100 rescue groups across the state that aid in the recovery and adoption of homeless animals.

Residents and their fur friends enjoyed vendors throughout the park, food trucks, play pools and free pet photos. Family-friendly music was also provided by Z88.3 FM. During the event, OCAS’ Mobile Unit provided free pet microchipping and rabies vaccines. The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando also offered low-cost vaccines and heartworm disease tests.

OCAS is Orange County’s only open-admission shelter. The shelter takes in an average of 55 animals every day and as many as 100 during peak breeding season. Rescues help to manage the shelter population, so that OCAS can maintain a healthy environment and capacity to receive new animals.

For more information about OCAS, the services they provide or available pets for adoption, please visit www.OrangeCountyAnimalServicesFL.net.

Photo Caption: Orange County Animal Services hosted their 2018 Barktoberfest on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando.