Mutts and Meows Masquerade

MATAMORAS — Miniature Santas, ghosts, fairies, football players, pumpkins and witches barked and meowed their way around the Matamoras Borough last Saturday, Oct. 20, during Pike County’s Safe Haven and Humane Society “Mutts and Meows Masquerade March.” The two not-for-profit groups collaborated for their first annual march, with over thirty costumed dogs and cats and gathered at Matamoras’ Airport Park for a walk to promote domestic non-violence for both animals and people, and to raise awareness of the need for both in the community. After the walk, the pets and their owners participated in costume contests. Awards were given out to the ugliest, cutest, best-in-show, largest, and best owner-pet look-a-likes, among others. The Humane Society had merchandise for sale at the march and brought along several dogs for adoption. Linda LaStarza, Safe Haven’s executive director, was pleased with the afternoon’s turnout. “This was a wonderful community event with people and pets promoting peace,” she said.