HAGERSTOWN, Md. — The 14th annual Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade took over Hagerstown’s Dog Park on Oct. 24 as pups big and small sported their best Halloween costumes. Several local organizations and businesses collaborated to host this year’s parade including Parks and Recreation, the Humane Society of Washington County, Hearty Pet and Downtown Hagerstown.
As the pups strutted down the red carpet, host Ryan Smetzer read aloud their name, costume and a fun fact about them. Costumes and prizes were separated into five categories: hero hounds, petite pups, creative canines, doggie duos and fabulous fidos. There were also prizes for judges’ choice and best in show costumes.
There were also several vendor booths at the event offering dog treats and information about their business or organization. State Farm, Platinum Paws Pet Services and Hearty Pet were among the vendors set up along the walking path.
Judges for this competition included members of the Humane Society, members of Hagerstown’s city council and Hagerstown Mayor Bill McIntire. After all the dogs strutted the red carpet, judges deliberated for about 20 minutes to determine who would take home prizes.
