Pets invited to Halloween Parade

McCOOK Neb. — The McCook Gazette’s annual Halloween Parade is set to take place on Saturday, October 26, at 10 a.m. Kids will line up outside the Keystone Business Center dressed in costume and trick-or-treat the businesses on Norris. 

This year’s parade is expected to draw even larger crowds as the McCook Humane Society and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) join forces to invite families to dress up their pets and bring them along. This collaboration enhances the community spirit and raises awareness for two vital causes: child advocacy and animal welfare.

A growing trend among pet owners reflects this event’s joy and community spirit. According to national survey results from 2022 released by PetSmart, 76 percent of adult American pet owners planned to dress up their pets for Halloween, with 30 percent intending to do so multiple times throughout the holiday season.

At first glance, it may seem surprising that CASA and the McCook Humane Society would partner for this event, but their missions align closely. Both organizations strive to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves. CASA advocates for children in the foster care system, ensuring their needs are acknowledged and met. At the same time, the Humane Society works tirelessly to find loving homes for abandoned and neglected pets. Together, they aim to demonstrate that everyone—vulnerable children or homeless animals—deserves love, care, and the opportunity for a better future.

Prairie Plains CASA’s mission focuses on providing a voice for neglected and abused children navigating the court system. Their efforts help minimize chaos and uncertainty, guiding these children toward safe, permanent homes where they can thrive. Meanwhile, the McCook Humane Society dedicates its efforts to securing permanent, loving homes for needy animals.

In a recent Facebook post promoting the event, organizers encouraged participants to Dress up their pets and kids for the parade down Norris Ave., snap a photo of their costumed pet, and submit it on our Facebook page for a chance to win Best Pet Costume.”

Those who do not want to attend the costume parade can still post a picture of their dressed-up pet on either the Prairie Plains CASA or the McCook Humane Society’s Facebook pages.