Polka-dotted jackets, tutus, fairy wings and bandannas were among the outfits strolling around Nay Aug Park on four legs Sunday.
Pups of various breeds, sizes and coats joined their owners for Bark in the Park, an annual animal rescue fundraiser. This year, the event included more than 50 vendors, a pet costume parade, live music, games and meet-and-greets with dogs available for adoption.
"It started out small, but we kept adding things," said Hope Benson-Simmons, 47, of Hop Bottom, the event organizer.
It was the first year the owner of Laura's Hope Rescue took charge of the event, but she said she plans to continue in her role.
"We always like a good challenge," she said of her friends, family and volunteers. "We wanted to make a difference, and I think we did."
This year, the event also included a motorcycle event called "Paws on the Throttle Ride" to benefit the Fisher House, which provides "a home away from home" for families of military members during medical treatment.
"My son is in the process of going over to Kuwait," Ms. Benson-Simmons said, citing her 23-year-old son, Derek Benson, who is in the National Guard, as the inspiration.
Around the park, volunteers staffed tents that sold dog clothing and treats, and even gave tap-dancing lessons.
"I've never tapped a day in my life," Kaitlyn Rebernik, 15, a Scranton High School student and volunteer, said.
She and Angelica Ayala, 17, a senior at the same high school, volunteered at 15-year dance teacher Bob Lippi's tent, surrounded by tap shoes in nearly every size. The two were earning volunteer hours for school but also enjoying their time dancing and seeing all of the dogs.
"We get to meet new people, help out and get homes for animals that need them," Angelica said.
Contact the writer: rbrown@timesshamrock.com, @rbrownTT on Twitter