But for some furries, getting together virtually wasn't quite as fulfilling as meeting in person, leading to informal "fur meets" and, later, conventions like Anthrofest.

"For a weekend you can just be yourself, be your character, do what you gotta do" is Ciccone's succinct explanation of the convention.

Last year, the convention attracted around a hundred attendees. This year, Ciccone, who pays for the convention with at least $4,000 out of his own pocket, expects at least 125.

"Furry is very much a labour of love. If you're in this to make money, you better be very good at drawing, or making costumes."

Labels: events, Montreal