NATCHEZ — Dogs walked, ran and even dragged their owners around at the 19th annual Bark in the Park fundraiser Saturday fetching a good time, a few trophies and raising money for the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society.

Pat Cox has been a volunteer at the humane society for 20 years. She said it is great to see so many well-cared for and loved animals out with their owners.

“A lot of them came from our shelter,” Cox said. “It’s fun just to see them all out here.”

Michael Boykin brought Belle, the schipperke he adopted from the shelter in March, to her first Bark in the Park event.

“It’s like a big family reunion for a good cause,” Boykin said.

Boykin said he saved Belle from death when he adopted her from the shelter. Boykin said Belle had a severe case heartworms and was given a bad prognosis from a vet in Natchez.

“I took her to a vet in Jackson and we started aggressive treatment,” he said.

Boykin said Belle’s treatment just finished up, and she is doing much better.

Elaine Gilboy brought her dachshund, Scooby, who she adopted from the humane society six years ago. She said people who want a pet should adopt.

“Everyone who wants one should have one and everyone should adopt,” she said. “

Furry participants wagged, smiled and even sang their way to victory in several competitions throughout the day at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians.

It was tough competition in the best dressed contest with several dogs eyeing a trophy and a treat from their owner. Zoey Rose, a miniature yorkie dressed as a ladybug, beat out her canine competition of mailman, a banana, a frog prince and many others dressed. Zoey was accompanied by her owner Aubrey Timm, who was wearing a matching outfit.

Jennifer Beach’s blond cocker spaniel, Daisy, stole the hearts of the judges after she sang “I love you, Daisy” in the best singer competition

Susan Mingee, secretary of Natchez-Adams Humane Society Board, helped organize the event and said at least three dogs were adopted at the Bark in the Park.

“It gives us all a chance to make a difference for animals,” Mingee said.

All proceeds from the event go to the humane society’s operating fund. Mingee said the humane society took in about 2,500 animals this fiscal year. She also said at least $85,000 of the society’s $120,000 budget comes from fundraisers and donations.