Article Photos

VIENNA - The show went to the dogs and everyone involved was fine with that.

Around 20 dogs of all sizes and breeds participated Sunday in the first Mr. and Miss Mid-Ohio Valley Paws Dog Show at Spencer Park.

Dogs competed in four divisions and many pet owners dressed their dogs in colorful costumes. Dogs competed in categories of male and female, under 20 pounds and male and female, 21 pounds and over.

"I thought I could do something for the Humane Society," said Miranda Haught, event director. "I have a little dog that we like to enter into puppy pageants.

"The Humane Society (of Parkersburg) is really in need and I thought 'Why not do something?' that I would enjoy and people would enjoy," she said. "I decided to do a puppy pageant and dog show. I thought it would be fun. All of the money made here will be going straight to the humane society."

Owners walked their dogs across a stage for a panel of judges to see and evaluate each dog. The show also included a silent auction and bake sale,

Many participants were showing their dogs for the first time and many came to have fun and support the humane society.

"We came to see the pageant and donate money to the humane society," said Karalena Spouse, who came with her daughter, Zoe, and their Shitzu, Jyles.

Many said their dog was special and wanted to share it with others.

"I think she is just the cutest dog there is," said Teri Ramsey of Williamstown talking about her Yorkiepoo, Zoe.

Patsy Cox of Parkersburg, who brought her Pomeranian, Lola, wanted to do her part to help the humane society.

"I like to do anything that helps the humane society," she said. "I am also here for the fun of it and wanted to see all the other pets."

Haught said fall is perfect weather for such an event.

"I figured Sunday would be the best day to do this," she said. "In October, it isn't so hot that the dogs would be uncomfortable. It also isn't cold or freezing.

"People think that animals don't like to dress up, but they really do," Haught said. "It is something that a lot of people like to do with their animals. Their animals are their best friends."

Haught originally believed they would only have 10 dogs, but more and more people kept coming.

"Now I am just so excited," she said.

Prizes were awarded to first, second and third place for the four categories.

First-place winners were Otis, a pug owned by Britney Barker for Little Mr.; Rambo, a pug owned by Shannon Hathaway for Mr.; Ellie Raelyn, a Maltese owned by Becky Soroka for Little Miss; and Patch, a dalmation owned by Gloria and Mike Jouver for Miss. Each winner got a ribbon, a trophy, a dog toy and a $35 gift certificate to the 4 Paws Salon in Parkersburg. Ellie Raelyn was also named the fan favorite by the audience.

Maryann Hollis, executive director of the Humane Society of Parkersburg, said she loved the event.

"Everybody looks adorable and it is very well attended," she said. ""This is a great idea. People who are dog people like to get their dogs dressed up and showing them off. This is a lot of fun. I think it is an awesome idea."

The event raised $450 for the humane society.

Haught was pleased with the turnout and hopes more people will come next time.

"This is the first one so hopefully, it will be bigger next year," she said. "We want to see more people come and make it a bigger event."