Local
By Justin McClelland
Staff Writer
WEST CHESTER TWP. — Does your mastiff morph into a mystifying mummy with minimum effort? Can your spaniel pull off a surprisingly effective Superman (or Superdog, as the case may be)? Is your terrier a terror in costume or out?
Dog lovers with a sense of adventure, a love of Halloween and a patient canine are invited to march in the MetroParks of Butler County’s celebration of man’s best costumed friends this weekend.
The second annual Howl-o-ween Costumed Dog Parade and Contest will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Voice of America Park Lodge, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester Twp.
“Last year’s event was a huge success,” said Susan Stretch, community relations manager for MetroParks of Butler County. “Everyone — man and dog — had a great time and raised money for a good cause.”
Last year, more than 150 dogs (and their owners) dressed up and walked the grounds, terrifying and delighting more than 500 spectators with their unique, imaginative and often hilarious and adorable costumes.
Prizes for the best three in four separate categories will be awarded, including: best costume, small dog; best costume, large dog; best costume coordination between dog and owner; and best costume/theme among multiple dogs in the same group.
Besides the parade, this year’s festival also will have demonstrations by the Ohio Highway Patrol K-9 Unit, vendors with dog products and treats, and displays from adoption/rescue organizations, such as Animal Friends Humane Society and the Progressive Animal Welfare Society.
Entries are $10 and can be made at www.yourmetroparks.net or by calling (513) 874-5450. All proceeds benefit the Wiggly Dog Park Fund at the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty. Howl-o-ween is free for spectators. The cost to park is $3 per car.
Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4544 or jmcclelland@coxohio.com.