The Tower District hosted the 12th annual Whitie’s Pets Pooch Parade, Canine Carnival and Costume Contest, which took place on Oct. 28.

Dozens of local dog lovers gathered in Tower to watch dogs of all sizes, colors and breeds strut their stuff with their owners in an array of costumes and floats. Dog owners also shopped at local vendors and mingled with fellow pet owners.

The dog contest included four categories: best dog costume, best dog/owner costume combo, cutest dog and best dog float with three winners in every category. Some popular costumes included taco and hotdog costumes, as well as movie-themed costumes, like “Star Wars,” “Up” and “Jurassic Park.” Some other creative costumes on display included Day of the Dead, voodoo dog and “Charlotte’s Web.”

More than a dozen booths lined the parking lot at Detention Billiards including: a beer and bone garden, Tiny Paws, which is a cooling station for overheated pooches, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Fresno Furry Friends and many more. ­Creative Coach — Animal Training was also at the event with Kit Perry (animal trainer and behavior consultant) and her dog Polly who performed dog training demonstrations.

Nulo pet food, which is supported by Michael Phelps and his dog Legend, prides itself on its healthy pet products. Nulo representatives informed potential customers of the health benefits of their products and gave out free dog food samples to patrons. NutriSource, a super-premium pet food company, was also giving out free dog food samples as they mingled with local pet owners.

In the end, winners of the contest included: Unicorn dogs, Tiger dog, “Up,” “Chucky” twins, Stegosaurus dog, Day of the Dead dog and many more. The pooches received gift bags filled with an array of dog food, training treats, toys and gift cards. ­

­For more information on future pooch parade events, contact the Tower District Marketing Committee at (559) 367-3464.