Cape Coral Church Plans Pet Contest and Shelter Fundraiser for This Weekend

At Saint Katharine Drexel Parish, the Ladies Auxiliary will host "Poochapalooza," a pet contest supporting the Cape Coral Animal Shelter. The event is on Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"This is going to be a fun, community event that will also benefit the Cape Coral Animal Shelter," said event organizer Kat Donahue, according to Cape Coral Breeze. "We're also aiming to spread awareness about their purpose and mission, while putting on a really fun event for the community."

Dogs can compete in three groups: best dressed, funniest costume, and best trick. Each group accepts 25 pets max. Owners must bring $10, vaccination records, and a can of puppy food to join.

Judges will watch as pets strut their stuff, picking top winners for each group. The shelter's director, Liz McCauley, plans to speak about caring for pets and introduce dogs seeking homes.

A dog bakery will sell fresh treats. Pet sitters will meet new clients. Shops will display collars and toys. Skilled K-9s will show off tricks. Guests can grab a bite from food trucks while music fills the air.

Before moving south, Donahue ran similar gatherings up north. "People love their pets and to show off their pets. They spend a lot of time, and love, and care. It's just a good way to bring people together with the love of animals being a common denominator," she said.

Her past work as a vet tech and shelter worker shapes her view. "Animals, we are their lifeline," Donahue said. "We are their support system. When you commit to an animal, you commit to them for their lifetime. They need and depend on us, and they give so much back to us."

The group hopes to make this a yearly event. Saint Katharine Drexel Parish is located at 1922 SW 20th Ave. in Cape Coral.