WEST CHESTER TWP. — The dog days of summer are over, but Howl-O-Ween is here.

Pet owners are invited to bring their dogs of all breeds in costume to march in a parade at the Voice of America Lodge.

This is the first Howl-O-Ween, which will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 17.

“Even if you don’t have a dog, it will be a hoot,” said Tanya Zerkle, co-coordinator of the event, “I just think it will be funny to see the dogs dressed in costume willingly.”

“Willing” may not describe how dogs behave when put in a costume, but Zerkle stresses costumes should both be fun and safe.

There will be prizes in five categories, according to how well owners and their pet companions impress the judges. All prizes are donated from PetSmart, Dognabit!, Petz Wash, Candy’s Dog-O-Mat and K9 Country Club.

To make the competition more interesting, owners are welcome to dress in costume with their dogs to win a combined award — the category that will win the best prize.

“People love to show off their pets,” said Pulse-Journal Editor Mandy Gambrell, who will be on the panel of judges. “Cox newspapers had a photo contest over the summer and received hundreds of photo entries, many with dogs in costumes. Hopefully we’ll see some of them at Howl-O-Ween.”

Homemade biscuits will be available for purchase, and 100 percent of the funds goes toward Wiggly Field Dog Park, which is in the VOA park. Donations are also being accepted. MetroParks is seeking to raise awareness of the dog park so they can maintain and improve it.

Registration will be at the lodge, where hot cider and donuts will be available. Admission and registration is free, but parking requires a permit.

Pets that participate should be well-mannered dogs on leashes.