Pets compete in costume contest
By Winkie Lee
Published in News on October 31, 2005 1:50 PM
There was the dapper cowboy lizard, the Chesapeake Bay retriever dressed from head to tail in a pink elephant costume, and so many more animals, all of whom competed in Saturday's pet costume contest co-sponsored by Pet Supplies "Plus" and the Wayne County Humane Society.
In the end, three animals emerged victorious. Taking home the first-place prize of $300 cash and a year's supply of pet food was Sebastian, who was adopted by Lisa Sullivan of Goldsboro from the Carolina Basset Hound Rescue about four years ago. He won for his Musketeer outfit that included a velvet green and yellow cloak, a hat, sword and wig.
Taking the second-place prize of $75 cash and a year's supply of pet food was Quincy the Yorkshire terrier. Owner Tiffany Holland of Goldsboro dressed her pet as Daisy Dog, a dog imitation of Daisy Duke from "The Dukes of Hazzard." Quincy arrived in front of the five judges in a wheeled-carrier, making it look as if she was driving.
Third-place honors, which carried a $25 cash prize and a year's supply of dog food, went to Dazee, the silver dapple miniature dachshund, who belongs to the Wendy Whitfield family of Goldsboro. The 7-month-old dog was dressed as a hot dog with fries and a drink.
Proceeds from the costume contest, which exceeded $700, went to the Humane Society.
The first 10 months of 2005 have been good ones for the nonprofit organization. The society has provided financial assistance for the spaying of 59 cats and 72 dogs and the neutering of 34 cats and 25 dogs. The financial assistance is provided for low-income pet owners and is paid directly to the veterinarians.
Considering that the average litter consists of five kittens or puppies, the Humane Society estimates that this year's surgeries have lowered the pet overpopulation by 660. More pets than homes equal tragedy for many animals, who may be abandoned or may be left at the local animal shelter where, if they don't get homes, they'll be euthanized.
Other accomplishments for this year include carrying the Humane Society's education program into seven elementary schools and two middle schools. The program teaches young people the importance of being responsible pet owners.
More information about the Humane Society can be found by visiting www.goldsboro-wchs.org.