City News
Humane Society of Sedona Unleashes Excitement with Two Upcoming Pet Events
The Humane Society of Sedona, in collaboration with the Sedona Community Food Bank, is set to host the Every Dog Matters event on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The event will run from 8 a.m. to noon and again from 3 to 5 p.m., coinciding with the food bank’s regular distribution hours, offering free resources for dog owners.
Linda Brecher, a volunteer and the event organizer, expressed gratitude for the local support: “My third bedroom is just piled to the ceiling right now with everything that you can imagine for dogs. SedonaKind gave me a grant this year for $600, and I did not spend one penny due to the generosity of local businesses.”
Attendees who are Sedona residents can look forward to receiving a free one-year dog license, vouchers for microchipping and vaccinations, dog tags, and various pet supplies. Most items are typically available during the morning shift, so early arrival is encouraged.
SCFB Executive Director Cathleen HealyBaiza highlighted the event’s accessibility: “You don’t even have to be a client of the food bank, but if you have a pet in need, you are welcome.”
Concerns over housing and financial constraints often force pet owners to make difficult choices, as explained by Humane Society Executive Director Jennifer Brehler. She noted, “The most important thing for us is if we can keep people and pets together. A lot of the animals that come into the shelter are due to financial issues related to housing.”
In addition, the Humane Society will offer a walk-in vaccination and microchip clinic for low-income pet owners on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at their shelter located at 2115 Shelby Drive. Brehler recommended early attendance to avoid long waits, recalling that one family arrived before staff to secure vaccinations for their dogs.
Howl-O-Ween Costume Parade
Brehler described the event as a community celebration: “It’s a great community event where you can dress up yourself and your pet, usually dogs at Tlaquepaque.” The parade will feature Halloween-themed festivities aimed at promoting community engagement.
Participants are encouraged to dress up both themselves and their pets, but pets must be comfortable in their costumes to avoid disqualification. The event requires a $20 entry fee, and registration is suggested, though on-site registration will be available starting at 9 a.m.
The parade will kick off at Tlaquepaque’s Calle Independencia and conclude at Tlaquepaque North. Categories for prizes include Doggone Cutest, Craziest Canine, and Best Group Costume. For further details, visit the Humane Society of Sedona’s website.
