Submitted by Rachel Eckerle

The hot and humid dog days of summer did not stop the fun in Cape Coral last weekend. Several local residents turned out to show off their pooches at the annual Just for Fun Dog Show at Rotary Park Environmental Center.

It was a doggone good time as wagging tails took over the park. According to the show organizers, 27 dogs registered to compete with other locals and their pups. Many more attended as spectators with their dogs. Proceeds from the event benefit the park.

Open to all sizes and breeds of dogs, participants competed for a variety of awards, including best costume, dog/owner look-alike, best trick, longest ears, and best kisser. In the best rescue category, participants shared their heart-warming stories of how they rescued their pups from an uncertain future. Prizes included donated gift baskets, ribbons and gift certificates redeemable at the park.

The award for best in show went to a three pound rescue Chihuahua named Moose. Shown by his owner, Suzanne Horvath, he was dressed to impress in almost every category.