First-Ever Westie Pawlooza Raises More Than $2K For West Haven Animal Shelter

WEST HAVEN, CT — (Contributed): The city held its first-ever dog festival, Westie Pawlooza, in Old Grove Park on Saturday to raise money for the West Haven Animal Shelter.

Dogs and their owners came from as far as New Jersey to buy raffle tickets, support 12 local vendors, dress up their pups, and get some free pup cups and Frisbee discs.

The benefit was sponsored by Green Fur Kidz Inc. and raised about $2,500 for the animal shelter, based at 7 Collis St.

It was organized by Green Fur Kidz founder Meli Garthwait, of West Haven, with help from Margaret Longo, a program coordinator at the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Animal rescue organizations Halfway Home Rescue and Army’s Legacy were on-site with rescue dogs up for adoption, while Blind Drive and Dj Rui Reis provided the music.

A K-9 demonstration was given by West Haven police K-9 Sgt. Thomas Marchitto and his police dog, Ado, along with K-9 Officer James Tortora. Training tips were provided by trainer Michelle Douglas of The Refined Canine LLC.

The event included the Old Mexico and Waffles on Wheels food trucks.

Special thanks to the city and all who attended and donated.