Thanks to support from Darrell Waltrip Subaru, ASPCA and Friends of WCAC, the month of October is known as “Pawctober” at Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC). Each year the Franklin-based auto dealer and national animal welfare organization collaborate to fund activities that raise awareness, promote pet adoptions and encourage veterinary care.

Last year the organizations got together to, among other things, open a public dog park at the animal center. This year, they are re-uniting at the park to host an event that is sure to be a howling good time. Everyone is invited to dress up their pooches – and themselves – to take part in the inaugural “Howl-o-ween Hootenanny” on Saturday, October 19 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at WCAC. There will be costume contests with prizes, games for humans and their furry family members, pet-related vendors and other activities. There is no registration or fee to attend.

In addition to the costume party, WCAC will use funds from the grant to waive randomly selected adoption fees and offer rabies vaccinations and microchipping at no cost. Throughout the month, approved adopters draw to win a free adoption during checkout. Normal rates apply to those who do not win: $50 per kitten, adult cat and adult dog, $85 per puppy. Moreover, folks are able to have their pets vaccinated against rabies and microchipped at no cost during WCAC’s monthly clinic on Saturday, October 26 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the shelter, a $10 and $15 value, respectively. Pre-registration for the clinic is available on the animal center’s website and encouraged.