The Butler County Humane Society invites local animal lovers to bring their canines to Confederate Park Sunday for the autumn edition of Bark in the Park.

The fundraiser kicks off at 1 p.m., wrapping up at 4 p.m., with all proceeds going to the BCHS.

There will be a few changes this time around for the semi-annual event, says Bark in the Park organizer Kimberly Matthews.

“We have a great guest deejay, Major Delay of radio’s Cumulus Broadcasting System, who will be spinning the tunes for us on Sunday,” said Matthews. “He will also emcee our very popular pet contest for us.”

The cost to enter the contest is a $5 entry fee per pet with no limit on number of animals entered. Pet costumes are welcome but not required to enter, says Matthews.

“Everyone wins a special title, from ‘Floppiest Ears’ to ‘Most Spots’ and a prize — and one lucky dog will get the grand prize as the ‘Best in Show,’” Matthews explained.

Concessions will be available from Pizza Hut, Super Foods and Shell Depot, and attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and/or quilts and enjoy a picnic in the park before the pet parade and contest, slated to begin at 3 p.m.

“We also have lots of pet coats and outfits perfect for your pooches for fall and winter and other pet-related gifts, so be sure to allow time to check out all these goodies,” Matthews said. “It’s fun spoiling our dogs!”

The jolly old elf himself, Santa, will be on hand throughout the afternoon to pose with people and their pets. A donation of $10 earns pet owners a 5×7 keepsake photo of the occasion.

“We are looking forward to another great event,” said Matthews.

“We hope lots of folks will join us downtown this Sunday for good food, music, fun and lots of wonderful dogs — and it’s all for such a good cause.”