Sevier Animal Care Center and Sevier County Humane Society conducted the 2019 Dog Fashion Show at the fairgrounds Saturday morning. Paws were strutting and costumes were modeled in various categories. It was a ‘ruff’ assignment, but I knew that I had to see the show. Follow along to see the contestants and winners in this fun event.

I parked in the lot and walked onto the fairgrounds to find the Show Stage. It was fun to see everything a few hours before opening time as the Dog Fashion Show took place at 11:00 a.m., but the fair did not open until 3:00. This is a view that you will not often see. All was quiet and still.

The Sevier County Fair is one of the best family events of the year. Within that week, the dog show event is also perfect for family members that have feet, or paws, as evidenced by this family coming to the event.

I walked in and found a hay bale in front of the stage. Dress for warm temps for it will be a warm August morning.

Dogs are fast. Dogs are faster than the shutter speed on my iPhone so I devoted this article more to photos and did not take any notes. As a result, I don’t remember many names or background stories; consequently, I will let my photos tell the story.

Chances are that you will sit near some cuties.

During breaks, the Sevier County Humane Society and the Sevier Animal Care Center directors informed the crowd of their work and local intake statistics. They also gave tips to owners on a variety of topics. One good tip was to write your name and phone number on the inside of your pet’s dog collar in case they get lost. Most importantly, spay and neuter pets. Unfortunately, people do not spay or neuter they animals. For that reason, the intake center received more than 2,500 pets in the past 8 months. Unbelievable. Spay and neuter help is available at (865) 453-7000. The Facebook page is https://sevierhumane.org/spay-neuter/

Sevier Animal Care Center http://www.sevieranimalcarecenter.com

Judges and organizers were ready to begin.

Dogs were required to be on leashes. All were very friendly too. I liked this costume!

This beautiful animal was a rescue dog. It was found emaciated and in bad shape, but was later adopted by this young family. A happy ending!

Pretty in Pink!

This owner was patiently waiting her turn.

The contestants came in all sizes and ages. You did not have to walk your dog very far to compete.

I loved this little chihuahua because it is 15 years old. Mine is too! You can walk older dogs or those with health issues. The contest is actually very relaxed and no pressure. Look at the judges admire and encourage this sweet senior dog.

I love a dog in a sombrero!

Pirate dog.

Event registration is a $5 donation. You don’t really have to spend any money to come up with a costume, just imagination.

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Judges were encouraging to all the contestants. You could tell that they were having a good time as much as the audience. Everyone was in very good mood. Who wouldn’t be with dogs?

This dog contestant is eligible for adoption. What a nice, happy pup!

Dog tricks are a good way to impress the judges and audience. So cute!

A slight costume slip did not stop this contestant.

This four month old pup is also up for adoption. It is practically house trained and good with kids and other animals.

It was clear that the tent was full of animal lovers.

These are two dog strollers full of fun. This couple brought 5 dogs and went home with several ribbons. They came to compete! Here is the 15 year old chihuahua again. Sweet thing! So mellow.

This dog was pageant ready in a hand made dress. Pretty in pink!

Finally, it was time for the awards. Here were the categories:

• Go Orange
• Best Dressed
• Pop Culture
• Funniest
• Prettiest
• Owner/Pet Lookalike
• Best Overall

It got hectic for me with all the awards, prizes, and presentations, but I was able to snap a few pictures in the excitement of it all.

It was amazing, but they were able to get both dogs to pose together for the winners’ circle photo above. Each was very mellow and well mannered with all the attention and fuss.

The Dog Fashion Show was a great success and everyone had a good time, both human and canine alike. Next year will bring new contenders. Consider bringing your pet in a fun hat or outfit. Who knows? I may enter my dog in the Owner/Pet Lookalike category next year. It is sure to be a great time while supporting two of the hardest working organizations in the county, Sevier Animal Care and the Sevier County Humane Society.

See you next year!