A happy Howl-o-ween from the dogs of Valley Stream

The nor’easter may have put a damper on the Friends of Valley Stream Dogs annual Howl-o-ween fundraiser, but it did not stop fifty dog owners from having a doggone good time at the Valley Stream Dog Park on Oct. 28.

“We almost cancelled altogether because we weren’t sure about Sunday’s weather, but we decided to do an abridged version of the fundraiser and at least have the costume parade and competition,” said Denise Barnard, the director of events for the Friends of Valley Stream Dogs volunteer committee. “We missed having rescue groups and vendors, but we loved the fact that so many people put so much work into the costumes for their dogs.”

Sixteen dogs were dressed up for the event, such as Luna, a 9-year-old Boxer, who was dressed up as an elf. Others dressed up with their dogs, including Joann Scala and Sara Pergola, who dressed their dog, Bella, as a Girl Scout, and adourned themselves as her cookies.

The dogs and their owners then strutted down a runway, while a panel of judges evaluated each of their costumes. First and second place prizes were awarded for the funniest costume, the cutest costume, the scariest costume, the best combination costume and the most original costume.

“The dogs all looked great, and the owners looked like they had a lot of fun,” Barnard said. “We really have such a nice community of dog lovers at the park.”