Message from Councilwoman Elizabeth Stamler | August 3, 2023

Another sign of the dog days of summer in Scotch Plains: our annual DOGust event.

The Township is pleased to host its annual celebration of our four-legged friends on Saturday, Aug. 12 at Jerseyland Park, 2377 Richmond St., from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please note a rain date is scheduled for Aug. 19.

In partnership with Scotch Plains Parks & Recreation Department and as a part of the Scotch Plains Mayor's Wellness Campaign, the DOGust celebration serves as a universal birthday party for all adopted and rescued dogs in Scotch Plains. 

This event, sponsored by K9 Resorts on South Avenue in Fanwood, will once again include treats, activities, cool off zones, community groups and a donation drive. Attendees are allowed one dog per human, must provide proof of rabies vaccination, and must pre-register for the event. There is no cost to participate in DOGust.

According to the Paws and Claws Society, Inc., a non-profit that fights for animal welfare in New Jersey, there are about 25 cats and dogs who are euthanized in shelters each day in our state because they don’t have homes.

So, when you adopt a pet, you may be saving a life. You are giving these friendly animals a chance to experience the love and companionship that comes with being a part of a family.

I have always found that rescue dogs make for wonderful companions and reduce stress. They're always happy to see me and they love to go for walks, play fetch, or just sit by me on the couch. They provide years of love and loyalty, with gratitude for the safe home that is being provided.

Adopting a dog also helps reduce pet overpopulation. When you welcome a dog into your family, you're helping to reduce the number of unwanted puppies born each year, preventing the overpopulation of shelters and the euthanasia of healthy animals. 

I urge people to look at one of the many local rescue groups or shelters in the area. The adoption fee for a rescue dog is typically much lower than the price of a dog from a breeder. You can save money on the initial cost of your pet, as well as on the cost of food, veterinarian care, and other expenses, while also potentially saving a life.

Many rescue dogs have been through difficult times; they deserve a loving home where they can finally be happy and be secure. So you are truly giving them a second chance at life. But please be patient in your search; it may take some time to find the right dog that fits your lifestyle and your needs.

If you aren’t ready to adopt, there are other ways to support dogs in need, such as donating time, food, toys, money or, of course, opening your home temporarily to foster an animal until a forever placement is found. 

I very much looking forward to meeting your pet at the upcoming DOGust event. For first-timers, you will find this celebration to be plenty of fun, for both of you, and it will certainly become a must-attend event, year after year.

For more information about the upcoming DOGust, call the Recreation Department at 908-322-6700 ext. 223. They will be happy to help!