‘Dogs of Summer’ blends canine enjoyable, style, and fundraising

CLARKESVILLE, GA — Rhinestone collars, sequined leashes, and wagging tails took middle stage at Aerial Mountain Springs on Saturday, August 23, as dozens of native pet house owners gathered for the second annual Dogs of Summer Pet Pageant. The playful competitors raised $500 to assist the mission of the Habersham County Animal Shelter.

Hosted by The Cute North Georgian journal, the occasion blended lighthearted enjoyable with a severe objective—serving to animals in want. Guests cheered their canine contestants by classes together with Best Costume, Most Dapper, Swimsuit, Talent, and the coveted Mr. and Mrs. Dog of Summer.

Pageant winners

Cheryl Clickner, Brittany Tilly, and Kristen LaShoto of First Baptist Church of Cornelia judged the pet pageant.

“The competition is fierce. It’s so hard to choose,” stated Clickner.

“I didn’t know it would be so tough; however, I love Maggie Mae,” added Kristen LaShoto, who solid her vote for the profitable “Mrs. Dog of Summer.”

Harvey – Best Costume

Ollie & Mylo – Most Dapper

Arlo Tilly – Swimsuit Competition

Honeybee – Most Talented

Maggie Mae – Mrs. Dog of Summer

Taurus – Host’s Favorite

For Honeybee’s mother, Molly Waltman Moncure, the pageant revealed her pup’s hidden drive.

“Thank you again for hosting! It was lots of fun and we will watch for the next event,” Moncure stated. “Honey is super sweet, but now I see she has a competitive edge—she was in it to win it.”

The occasion additionally honored the late Charlie McCurry, winner of the 2024 Ugliest Dog Contest, dedicating this 12 months’s pageant to his reminiscence.

Community assist on show

Alongside the pageant, a silent public sale helped increase proceeds with donations from native companies, together with Holden Oversoul Kitchen & Oyster Bar, Mr. Biscuit’s Café, FarmHome PoundCakes, Amanda’s Farm to Fork at The Tea Room, and Nosh by Kelly Young.

Venue proprietor Brittany Grella opened the picturesque lakeside property at Aerial Mountain Springs to host the night. Guests loved meals, drinks, and loads of laughs as pets strutted their stuff below the summer time sundown.

The goodness on this good-hearted occasion

While the ambiance was lighthearted, the fundraiser met an pressing want. The Habersham County Animal Shelter continues to function past capability, with workers and volunteers working each day to offer meals, medical care, and housing for stray and surrendered animals.

Habersham County Animal Care and Control Director Madi Nix praised the hassle and its impression.

“It always makes the Animal Control Officer in me so incredibly proud to see events with well-mannered, well-restrained, and friendly socialized pets all interacting!” added Nix. “Responsible pet owners for the win!”

Nix thanked The Cute North Georgian Magazine and everybody who made the second annual Dogs of Summer “so much fun!”

“Adoptable Harvey loved showing off what a great guy he really is out of the shelter setting. The venue was beautiful, and the company was top-notch!” she stated.

Proceeds from the occasion will go towards ‘buy owner’ gadgets wanted for the brand new animal shelter, which is now below development in Cornelia. Such gadgets embrace play yard toys, furnishings, and veterinary instruments that can enhance the care and high quality of life for shelter animals and workers.

“What moved me most was seeing so many people across our community share their talents and resources to serve those who could never repay them. I am grateful to all who platformed and contributed towards this event,” stated organizer Carly McCurry. “We can’t wait until Dogs of Summer 2026.”

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