Doggie Festival in Empie Park

It was a dog day afternoon in Empie Park today.

That’s because it was Dogfest. Man’s best friend celebrated Halloween with a doggie costume contest. Other contests at the event were a musical sit, longest smooch (the dog who licks their owner the longest wins), and best trick. The Cape Fear Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc. organized the event. Coordinators say they were happy with the turnout.

“Considering the weather and the fact the forecast was for 80 percent rain today, we’ve had a pretty good turnout,” said Priscilla Skare of Cape Fear Golden Retriever Rescue. “We’ve had a lot of fun times with the costume contests and we’re really happy people came out to support us today.”

Organizers estimate the event raised close to $1000.