Halloween time in the Tri-Town is full of fun, festive events, but few are as enjoyable and endearing as Octopurr Fest at It’s All About the Animals in Rochester.
Now in its fourth year, Octopurr Fest is the non-profit cat shelter’s largest fundraiser of the year, raising over $10,000 last year and likely more this year, judging by the huge turnout of community members and cat lovers on Octopurr 14, showing their support for their local animal shelter.
“Everybody seems to be having a great time,” said It’s All About the Animals co-founder Pam Robinson, who started the cat shelter with her husband, Oren, back in 2009. Since then, the shelter has expanded, with a brand new addition and “catio” completed last year.
Running the shelter costs the Robinsons around $75,000 annually, so a successful event like Octopurr Fest is vital in order to supply the cats with veterinary care, food, and supplies to keep them purring.
The shelter is operated 100 percent by volunteers, of which Pam Robinson says she is always seeking more. Robinson herself spends about 14 to 16 hours every day working in the shelter – and that’s seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Octopurr Fest was a smash because of the volunteers who dedicated their time to serving hotdogs and other treats and selling raffle tickets. Over 50 vendors sold their wares that included collars and leashes and other implements of pet ownership, and even a couple sheep donated their precious time to support the cats.
There are plenty of kitties that need a home and are available for adoption. It’s All About the Animals is located at 103 Marion Road, and visiting hours are Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. For more information about adoption, volunteering, or donations, visit www.itsallabouttheanimals.org or email ohnokitty1@gmail.com.
By Jean Perry