On Saturday, Pawfect Match Rescue is hosting its first annual Dogtober Fest at Millbrook Exchange Park in Raleigh from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Dogtober Fest is an event that talks about responsible pet ownership,” Kelli Ferris, an assistant professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine, said.

People who attend the free event will be able to participate in activities that will benefit rescue groups by helping it foster dogs.

“It’s a community awareness day so people can come out and enjoy activities and learn about some of the problems we face in our state,” Ferris said.

Attendees will have the opportunity to watch canine demonstrations, compete in contests and participate in rabies-vaccine and microchip clinics.

“You can get your pet a microchip for low cost,” Ferris said. “If you are separated from your pet that can’t find its way home even if it’s managed to slip its collar off, then whoever finds your pet can locate its home according to the information from the microchip.”

Tiffany Haupt, a freshman in First Year College, said she is excited about Dogtober Fest.

“My dog Daisy ran away and we searched for her. She was lost for two days and we were all so stressed out,” Haupt said. “It would have been a lot easier if we had that microchip.”

According to the Pawfect Match Web site, “All dogs deserve a second chance regardless of their breed or age.”

Haupt said she is aware of Pawfect Match’s methods on how the organization combats companion animal overpopulation.

“I’ve heard that Pawfect Match puts a lot of emphasis on saving one dog at a time instead of trying to save them all at once,” she said. “I think that is probably the most effective way to stop the overpopulation problem.”

Dogtober Fest is essential to rescue groups because at this event, people can look for dogs to adopt, according to Ferris.

She also indicated the event will host two speakers to talk about overpopulation issues.

“Speakers will be speaking to the group about the pet overpopulation issue in our state and across the country,” she said. “They will also talk about issues associated with unwanted pets.”

According to the Pawfect Match Web site, this year’s speakers include Monica Laliberte from WRAL-TV and Molly Stone from the SPCA.

“I’m really looking forward to hear these serious topics being introduced to the public by well-known people,” Haupt said. “But I think the thing I’m most excited about is trying to win the prize for the best Halloween dog costume.”