Photo Focus: STX Animal Welfare Center Barktober Fest a “Howling” Good Time

By Diana Dias
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“Barktober Fest” sign. (V.I. Source photo by Diana Dias)

The St. Croix Animal Welfare Center held “Barktober Fest” at Leatherback Brewing Company on Sunday.

Cute dog looking to be adopted at the “Barktober Fest.” (Photo provided by Evelyne Pena Feliz)

The stars of the event were 20 pets looking for homes from those who attended the event. There were performances from DJ Chubby and DJ Genius, food and craft vendors, trick-or-treating, and a puppy costume parade. Families and other patrons enjoyed an afternoon of fun activities.

Cooper posing with his shirt at “Barktober Fest.” (V.I. Source photo by Diana Dias)

Board President Emily Weston also gave a tour of the new plans for “Mission Coakley: SOS.” After Hurricane Maria in 2017 destroyed the previous shelter located in Estate Clifton Hill for the past 50 years, while planning the rebuild, they discovered the property was never zoned correctly for an animal shelter. Given this information, they switched gears and purchased the Castle Coakley Great-House property.

Monkey and her owner Amanda saying cheese. (V.I. Source photo by Diana Dias)

The proceeds from the “Barktober Fest” will go towards the animal shelter and their continued efforts. For those interested in adopting a pet or anyone who would like to make a donation to the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center, you can visit their website at stcroixawc.org.

Isaiah Evans takes a quick picture with adopted pet Gigi. (V.I. Source photo by Diana Dias)