On Saturday, a dozen pups and their companion humans turned out to vie for best of show at a canine costume party.
The contest was part of a Christmas celebration held from 1 to 4 p.m. to benefit the Franklin County Humane Society. Pups and people had a chance to tell Santa their holiday wishes and check out some of the animals available for adoption at the local shelter.
The costume contest was held at 3 p.m. and for those who did not have a costume at home, there were some loaners on hand. More than a dozen entrants came prepared; many wore holiday regalia.
Reindeer were the most popular entry, there were six, and a pair of reindeer, Electrifying Elijah and Alabama Abigail took first place. The winners belong to Heath and Patricia Usry, of
Second place went to Kali and Lili, a pair of terriers dressed as Santa and a red-booted reindeer and shown by Danny Spear and Susan Hudson.
Bringing in their place was Oliver, a rescued pit-bull dressed as a Kong dog toy complete with milk bones. Owners Gene and Susan Pinnock said the suit was handcrafted from two tee-shirts, stuffing and felt.
Cheryl Whaley’s dog also appeared as a reindeer. Lucky Dog, of
Melissa Brooks of Eastpoint brought her Italian greyhound Daphne in a sparkling mermaid costume. Her friend, Mason Pace, showed her dachshund Weenie, dressed as a weenie in a bun.
Taffy the dog, dressed as a bunny, came with Raquel Nugent of
A late arrival was Frankie, a blue-eyed pit bull with matching necktie. Ricky Ray Ruddy of Rockwell, described by owner Larry Kiley as “a naked redneck dog,” refused to wear a costume but barked instructions to the contestants.
Shelter Director Karen Martin was pleased with the turn-out and the day. “People were very generous,” she said, displaying a jar full of money. “And we found a home for a puppy.”
