THOMASVILLE — Count Dogula, Sir Paws-A-Lot and other furry characters step into the spotlight this All Hallow’s Eve with the annual canine-friendly Howl-O-Ween.

The event, sponsored by the City of Thomasville, is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Thomasville Dog Park, located on South Pinetree Boulevard across from Southwestern State Hospital.

“This is our third annual Howl-O-Ween at the dog park,” Kha McDonald, senior assistant city manager, said. “It was started to give our citizens and their favorite dogs a chance to dress-up and have a good time at the city’s newest park.”

Dogs must be at least six months old and be current on all vaccinations, she said.

Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes including Pet-Owner Look-a-Like, “Doggie and Me” Contest and Most Original Costume.

“I’ve attended the last two Howl-O-Ween events and can tell you much fun was had by all,” past participant and returning judge Lawana Smithwick said. “I absolutely cannot wait to see the new (and old) costumes we will see this year. The kids love the K-9 demonstration and love to see the dogs in costume prancing around in all their glory.”

Activities include Howl-O-Weenie Bobbing for Dogs, Bobbing for Bones, Fastest Tail Wagging, Super Silly Pet Tricks Contest and Ugly Dog Contest.

“Each year, we've had more participants and the costumes are getting more and more creative,” McDonald said. “We've had dogs dressed as University of Georgia fans, spiders, pirates and ballerinas, to name a few. Seeing kids and adults dressed up with their dogs is hilarious.”

The Thomasville Police Department will provide a K-9 demonstration and the Thomasville-Thomas County Humane Society will have pets available for adoption, McDonald said.

For more information, call 227-7001.

“This is a free event sponsored by the city for our visitors and citizens,” McDonald said. “We’ll have prizes, a DJ, candy bags, obedience training and a K-9 demonstration. Whether you have a dog or not, it’s a fun way to start your Halloween or harvest celebrations.”