Pooches To Parade Through West End This Month

By Christopher Sheldon

Brighton Avenue is a center for several great businesses in Long Branch, and later this month, it will also become the place to be for dogs and their owners.

The Greater Long Branch Chamber of Commerce is hosting the fifth annual Long Branch Block Party and Pooch Parade on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Brighton Avenue, between Ocean Boulevard and Second Avenue, will be closed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to accommodate parade-goers.

Local restaurants, crafters will be on hand and there will also be children’s activities including bounce houses and fire truck rides courtesy of the Long Branch Fire Department. Children will also get a chance to climb aboard the trucks this year and build their own scarecrows.

The Pooch Parade is the main highlight of the day and will feature costumed dogs and their owners marching down Brighton Avenue.

Those who would like their dogs to participate in the parade should contact the chamber office at 732-222-0400 or visit the office at 228 Broadway to receive an application. There is a $5 fee for each dog, and all the proceeds are being donated to Wag-On-Inn Animal Rescue.

The Pooch Parade is set for 1 p.m. in West End Park with line-up at 12:30 p.m. on Brighton Court. Judging categories will include Funniest, Best Look-alike Owner and Dog and Best Overall Costume. All dogs must be leashed and in costume to participate.