ROGERS -- About 75 dogs are expected to compete for best trick, costume and even kiss during the annual Rogers Dog Show tonight.
The event raises about $1,000 for the Rogers Animal Shelter each year, said Angela Brewer, organizer. She said six dogs are also adopted at no cost during the event. Bud Norman, Rogers Animal Shelter director, said adopting out six dogs during the event will help make room at the facility. Anywhere from three to 12 dogs are adopted from the shelter a week, he said.
Registration
Registration for the Rogers Dog how will be between 5:30 and 6 p.m. at Frisco Main Stage in downtown Rogers. Cost is $10 to enter and covers all dogs owned by one person. The show starts at 6 p.m.
The shelter houses about 80 dogs at all times, Norman said. Summer months typically see an increase, he said. The shelter had 110 dogs last week.
Norman said money from this year's event will be used to purchase additional kennels.
Brewer said the show provides a family friendly event. About 250 people attend every year, she said.
"It is really neat because it is downtown," Brewer said. "People might be eating downtown and they hear everyone laughing, clapping and dogs barking. They wonder what is going on and end up staying the whole night."
Gary Townzen, City Council member and business owner, has been a judge for the event since it started.
"I enjoy animals and especially dogs," Townzen said. "It is a lot of fun, and, at the same time, we will hopefully place some animals. We have too many dogs without a home."
Townzen was hesitant when asked about the new kissing contest.
"I need to find out a little more about that," he said. "I don't think I will be able to experience that first-hand."
Brewer said the judges don't have to worry. The contest will have the dogs "kissing" their owners.
Other contests will include loveliest lady, most fabulous fella, most stunning small dog, gorgeous golden oldie and best in show.
Prizes will include gift baskets ranging from $200 to $400, Brewer said. All costs for the event were paid through donations from 33 sponsors, she said.
"Without those individuals and businesses caring about the city and the animal shelter, there is no way we could have the prizes that we do," she said.
The event also will include police dog demonstrations by the Rogers Police Department.
NW News on 09/18/2015