CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Rover reigned supreme as Carmichael’s Barktober festival recently beckoned more than 200 dogs and best friends to Carmichael Park.

Falling close to Halloween, fancy dress was de-rigueur. Some pups came as witches; hell-fire hounds pranced; Dobermans joined the walking-dead. Doggedly cute were cheerleader chihuahuas; honey-bee hounds, a rottweiler Dumbo and a puppy piglet.

Roseville Police Department demonstrated K-9 deployment with teams that teach anti-bullying techniques. A “musical sits” event showcased pet obedience.  Large and small pooches circled. To the strains of “How Much is that Doggie in the Window, Labrador bested mini-labradoodle Abi. 

“Good sit, Ari,” howled the crowd.

Sunshine Pet Salon groomers offered free nail-trims for scores of four-footed visitors. Pro-trainer Miranda Viani (All Stage Canine Development owner) hosted canine agility displays and an obstacle course.

“Our attendees were well-mannered and enjoyed the activities,” said organizer Rosie Buck. “There were no fights, no bites but as you’d expect with a few hundred dogs having fun, there were plenty of woofs. Our festival united families, pets and businesses.”

The main event paraded more than 30 master/mutt costume duos. Best Overall honors went to the circus-themed Laurie Brajkovich and Miss Waffles. Their success was assured when, to wild applause, labradoodle Waffles rocketed through her lion-tamer mom’s hoop.

“She’s very smart and very motivated by treats,” enthused owner Brajkovich. “And she enjoys attention. We both love the Carmichael event; it’s so well put together. I’ve dressed Waffles up since she was a puppy. Before that, I dressed my cat. I don’t have kids. Spending time with Waffles is my greatest fun.”

Barktober was presented by Carmichael Chamber of Commerce and Carmichael Park District. Sponsors include All Stage Canine Development, Buck Family Automotive, AA Dog Training, Woofies of Folsom-Roseville, Kerri Mandes Fitness, Ben’s Barket Place, Food in the Hood 916 and Sunflower Pet Salon.