Dressing up for Halloween isn’t just for people any more as dogs got into the act Saturday with a costume contest and parade held especially for canines in Santa Maria.

The 11th annual Dilly Dally Howl-O-Ween Parade and Dog Costume Contest brought out around 30 canines and their owners.

Aside from the fun, the event also served as a fundraiser for the nonprofit W.O.O.F Pac Park, as dog owners were encouraged to make an optional $5 donation with each dog entered in the contest.

The total amount raised was unavailable at press time.

“I’m very happy we had so many people come out (and) beautiful costumes,” organizer Carol Gross said. “I had too many favorites.”

The tradition began 11 years ago when Santa Maria resident Melissa Kelly wanted to honor her deceased mother, who had a passion for animals.

Since then, the event has become a favorite fall activity for locals and their canine companions who frequent the patch of Waller Park reserved for dogs to play.

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On Saturday, a Labrador mix dressed as Snow White trotted proudly alongside her matching-costumed owner.

Two pit bulls, one dressed as a police officer and the other decked out as a prisoner, also stood out from the group.

However, in the end, it was a mutt named Dudley masquerading as a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” who took home the grand prize for best costume.

Close on Dudley’s heels came a pair of Chihuahuas named Mickey and Gabriel clothed as a bride and groom, and an English bulldog named Tank dressed as a Dog the Bounty Hunter, who placed second and third in the contest, respectively.

“I’m so happy. I made (the costume) out of the inside of a coat,” said Dudley’s owner, Aida Glynn of Santa Maria, adding that Dudley was patient during the sewing process “and always sat still” for fittings.

October 26, 2008