By On Thursday, Oct. 30, the anthrozoology animals of 2026 took to Centennial Park for their first annual Halloweenie walk.
The cuteness? Off the charts. The costumes? Next level.
There are a total of seven adoptable dogs and one cat this year coming from the program. Every anthrozoology animal available for adoption is from a rescue in Montana.
Two of the dogs – Ragnar and Princess – even came from the same litter this year.
The Halloweenie walk gives students and potential adopters a chance to meet the dogs before adoptions open up in the spring.
Alumni, professors, students, and neighbors all rallied to show their support for the dogs, and cat, this year. Even dogs who did not compete in the costume contest were able to come and show their stuff while getting some great experience being around crowds.
“It was great coming and seeing all the different dogs and humans in costumes and seeing how they bring joy to the people around them,” said Kaylee Broderick, Helena resident and 2024 Carroll anthrozoology grad.
The dogs, all on their best behavior, got to meet potential adopters and trick or treat for their very own treats from vendors around the park. Each vendor had treats for both dogs and humans.
“All the vendors were so well done and the costume contest was my favorite part,” said Morgan Tekorius, Helena resident and 2024 Carroll anthrozoology grad.
Costumes ranging from cows and cowboys, to fish, and jail breakers, barked their way to victory in the contest, receiving their own special Halloween toy as their trophy.
“I am very happy with the number of people we’ve had here today. We have a lot of support from our vendors, and the community really came out to show us support,” said Madelyn Brustkern, the canine anthrozoology professor who put the event together.
The dogs, while still not quite adoptable, are still working hard to max out their cuteness and attract potential adopters for the spring when they are available.
Haze the cat, of course, is making sure he’s purrfect – standing out amongst all the dogs.
