Hoboken dogs will have their day from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 10 when the city allows dogs to romp on the grass at Elysian Park during the Hoboken Dog Association Fall Pooch Parade.
“Normally dogs are not allowed on the grass anywhere in Hoboken in any of the parks,” said Jeff Laylon, Vice President of the HDA. Hoboken’s three dog runs, located at Elysian Park, Steven’s Park, and Church Square Park, are made of stones or a crushed aggregate of stones, so it is a treat for the dogs to be able to play with grass under their feet, if only for a day.
The day will feature live music, lunch, and vendors, and dog specialists. The dogs can live it up as Connie Fermosa of Canine Connections will be there with “Ttouch”-style dog massages and essential oils.
“Ttouch is useful for dogs that have behavioral issues,” said Fermosa. “Also dogs recovering from illness or surgery. It’s also good for general maintenance and health. It’s a very simple method to use. Almost anyone can use it, but you have to practice to be effective.”
Theresa Rivezzo from Village Grooming will be there giving out dog manicures.
“You trim the nails and you can file them if they have an edge, and I include herbal earwash,” said Fermosa. “I call them autumn pedicures.”
Herbal earwash flushes out any bacteria and debris in the ear with herbal ingredients and essential oils. The Hoboken shelter hopes to bring dogs to the event as well.
Canine advocacy
The HDA is a canine advocacy group formed in 2000 by Hoboken dog owners. They work with state and local officials to make sure the dogs have safe, clean areas to stretch their legs.
“Basically, our whole point is to preserve the special relationship between dogs and man,” said Laylon.
The HDA runs educational programs for dog owners on topics such as how to live in a city with a dog, proper nutrition for dogs, and how to care for aging dogs. They have also had an agility demonstration where dogs run through tunnels, jump through hoops and run through tires in competition with other dogs.
Over 200 people showed up for last month’s pet parade, where people turned out with dogs, cats, goldfish, and ferrets.
“Hoboken is a great place for people in their 20s and 30s when they’re single, or for young couples,” said Laylon, who also owns Cornerstone Pets. “A dog is a good way to get your feet wet before you have children. It’s a similar responsibility 24/7. You have to be responsible for your charge. You’re the guardian. You decide when it eats and when it goes out.”