Ahwatukee's dogs set to strut their stuff Sunday

For the second year, spring is going to the dogs in Ahwatukee Foothills as the Ahwatukee Community Swim and Tennis Center hosts the Ahwatukee Dog Show at Ahwatukee Park.

Kicking off at 9 a.m. Sunday, March 30, and lasting until noon, this event judges both purebred dogs and mixed breeds, with numerous categories for the pooches to be judged on.

Community Center Director Susan Hyden said she expects the number of dogs entered - which was around 60 or so last year - to increase in the 2008 event to more than 100. Ribbons and prizes will be awarded to the dog owners for first- through fourth-place finishes in nine categories, including Best Dressed, Best Trick and Best Kisser.

A category is also available for closest resemblance between owner and hound.

A number of wading pools will be keeping the dogs cool during and after events and games, such as bobbing for cookies, which will take place directly following the judged part of the competition. The judging will be separated into two rings, with children under 12 on one side and older entrants leading their pets in the other.

"Last year's evert was very successful and we have very high expectations for this year," Hyden said.

All prizes for the event were donated by PETCO, who will also be doing raffles throughout the day for dog-related items and donating proceeds from the raffle and pet pictures to the National Canine Cancer Foundation, Missing Mutts/Cats Etc. and Gabriel's Angels.

Judging for the competition will be done by event co-sponsor Desert Dog Obedience. For humans looking to grab a snack, Terri's Italian Ice and the Ahwatukee Farmer's Market will be in full swing at the event.

For more information or to pre-register, call (480) 893-3431, (480) 893-1942, visit www.ahwatukeehoa.com or walk in between 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday.