This past weekend more than 5,000 people joined dog rescue team Eleventh Hour at Horseshoe Lake Park in Succasunna for an event like no other. Puptoberfest was an all-day event dedicated to helping dogs in need. The event, which is currently in its twelfth year was a huge success for humans and pups alike.

The weather was perfect for the array of outdoor events that Puptoberfest had to offer. Kids could enjoy activities such as face painting and bounce houses, barbeque style food was served and entertainment was provided by the Al Frantic band. Vendors were abundant at the event, offering items for pets, home and much more. Some vendors even had free items such as tennis balls and frisbees for owners and pets to enjoy together. A doggie costume contest was also held at the main stage, with copious amounts of cuteness to go around.

After enjoying some time shopping and snacking patrons could also take a heartwarming walk down Eleventh Hour's memory lane. The memory lane area consisted of multiple tents and large poster boards with photos of dogs who had previously been adopted via the rescue group. The amount of photos in this part of the festival was amazing, showing just how much work Eleventh Hour has truly been able to do for our four-legged friends. Sticky notes and markers were provided so people could find their pets photo and leave a note. By the end of the event, there were notes covering the posters as owners expressed their gratitude to Eleventh Hour for uniting them with their companion, talked about how much they loved their pet or simply wrote things such as "Sparky was here!" This really showed just how important adoption can be for both owner and pet. With so many animals in need of homes today it is always important to consider adoption.

Those whose hearts were warmed by Memory Lane or those who had come to the event looking for a furry companion of their own could find just that at the events Adoption Center. Eleventh Hour had both photo portfolios as well as dogs that patrons could meet in person. Dogs in the adoption center had cages with pillows and toys and were periodically walked by volunteers. Meet and greets could be scheduled and potential owners could speak one on one with the dogs current foster parents.

By the end of the day, nearly 40 dogs who had been rescued by Eleventh Hour had found their new forever homes via the adoption center. With proceeds from the event going to help more dogs at Eleventh Hour this is an event that was not just fun but also meaningful as well.