It was hard to tell whether the dogs or their caregivers were having the most fun at Orr Park during the celebration of Critters by the Creek. The pups were prancing around showing off their Halloween costumes and nuzzling each other. You really got the idea that they knew they were competing for the first place prize for the best costume.

A beautiful big black poodle occasionally struck a pose in a white angel outfit. A little dachshund covered in an orange cloth pumpkin and a springer spaniel in a black and white skunk garb were obviously bragging to each other as they touched noses.

The local Park and Recreation Board jointly with Furtastic Pet Groomers sponsored the second annual Critters by the Creek on Oct. 25.

“Our goals were to raise money to fill the wish list for the Shelby County Humane Society,” said Emily Hall, owner of Furtastic. “And to raise awareness of health concerns with information about nutrition and training through a fun event for pet owners to get together and enjoy their pets.”

The humane society was there with vaccinations, identification micro–chipping and dogs for adoption. Santa Claus, of Shutterbugs, enjoyed the day posing for pictures with the pets. Those pictures will probably appear on many of this year’s Christmas cards. David Latimer’s dogs, trained for forensic and science investigations, proved their skills by retrieving well–hidden objects. There were also demonstrations by the rescue dogs of Bama Air Dogs and a special presentation by Bill Willington who was a dog trainer in Viet Nam.

Dr. Phillip Hubbard, of Countryside Animal Hospital, answered questions and distributed animal health literature. Dr. Harold Day, of Montevallo Animal Clinic, had puppies for adoption at the booth of the new boarding facility, Montevallo Dog House. Red Bones Grill was there with lunch for the two-legged animals and Bama Barkary offered homemade nutritious baked goods for the dogs.

Prizes were awarded in three categories, best costume, cutest and best in Show. There were first and second place winners in all three.

Twice during the day, animal blessings were given about 25 pets by Rev. Robin Norsworthy. “God created animals as well as human beings and I think we need to honor all of God’s creations,” Norsworthy commented.