On a beautiful fall day in October, the first Paws in the Park festival, hosted by the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, took place. On Oct. 16, more than 1,500 people and their furry companions flocked to Oronoco Bay Park to celebrate the love that Alexandrians have for animals!
The day was full of entertainment for attendees of all ages, from live music (sponsored by the Alexandria Library Foundation) to shopping from local artisans and animal-themed businesses to a food court with a beer garden.
And did someone say animals? The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria brought more than a a dozen adoptable dogs, cats and even guinea pigs. And with adoptable animals from other regional rescues and shelters populating Rescue Row (sponsored by Amazon), there were nearly 50 animals available for adoption over the course of the day.
The Family Fun Tent, sponsored by TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, had hands-on activities for pet owners and crafts that can assist animals in the community, and an interactive papier mache project designed and donated by Lisa Schumeier of keenthings created two striking and individual animals, crafted by our entire community.
And pups got to strut their stuff at Frolick Dogs’ Playland, featuring agility equipment and a ball pit!
Thanks to all of our amazing staff and volunteers who made the event happen, and of course, our wonderful sponsors whose support will continue to help animals in need in the coming year:
TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, Amazon, the Hoffman Town Center, Ting Internet, Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, VCA Animal Hospitals, Whole Dogz, WOOFS! Dog Training Center, the Alexandria Library Foundation, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Alexandria Pet Care, Beyer Subaru, Grateful Pup Dog Treats, The Happy Cat Hotel & Spa, Mars Petcare, Pampered Pet Boutique & Barkery, Ray Gernhart and Associates RE/MAX, Walsh Colucci Lubely & Walsha, Allied Veterinary Care, Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home, Fur-Get Me Not, GEICO NOVA Local Office, Kingstowne Cat Clinic and Vets to Pets!
A select gallery of photos from the event is below, provided by DeSilva Studios:
See more event photos and download or order prints of your favorites using our expanded photo album.