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Movie night is going to the dogs—and the cats—on the Upper West Side this October.
Symphony Space’s Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theater will be hosting the NYC premieres of the 10th Annual NY Dog Film Festival and the 8th Annual NY Cat Film Festival on Sunday, October 26. These feel-good film fests celebrate our furry companions with curated collections of short films from around the world—documentaries, animated shorts, and narrative stories that spotlight the unique bonds between pets and their people.
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But it’s not just about the cuteness. This year’s screenings will also raise money for Animal Lighthouse Rescue, a nonprofit that provides shelter and medical care to stray dogs and cats in Puerto Rico—affectionately called “satos”—and brings them to New York to find their forever homes. Half of every ticket sold will go directly to the organization. (Thanks to Harry S. Leff, Chairperson of Animal Lighthouse Rescue’s board, for notifying us of these events.)The Cat Film Festival will screen first at 11 a.m., featuring 21 short films selected from more than 70 submissions. At 2 p.m., it’s time for the pups: the Dog Film Festival includes 17 films from across the globe, including two award-winning stories about service dogs helping veterans cope with PTSD.
Animal lovers can also spring for a ticket to the VIP “Pooch & Pussy Cat Party,” happening the day before—Saturday, October 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Prohibition (503 Columbus Avenue). The event will include intuitive readings from nationally renowned animal communicators, custom pet portraits, photo ops, swag bags, and raffles. Dogs are welcome—just make sure they’re well-behaved! Every dollar from this party will support Animal Lighthouse Rescue’s life-saving work. Tickets are $60 or $100 for a pair–here’s the purchase link.
“These festivals are more than just entertaining,” said Tracie Hotchner, Founder and Director of the NY Dog & NY Cat Film Festivals. “They’re a celebration of love, compassion, and second chances. Every ticket sold translates to hope for animals who deserve a better life.”
After their Upper West Side premiere, the festivals will embark on a national tour to bring this message to communities around the country.
Tickets can be purchased here (for the cat fest) and here (for the dog fest).
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