Whether they were small, big or soft or furry, Huntley’s four-legged friends came out to Deicke Park for an afternoon of fun, with events such as a peanut butter licking contest and a walk around the park. Dogs of all kinds and their owners enjoyed Huntley’s eighth annual Dogtober Fest on Sept.18.

Huntley Dogtober Fest is not just a fun time with the community’s pooches, but serves as an event aimed to bring the entire community together while sharing love for their pups.  

“I think it’s important for a community to partake in these events,” Phil Kowalski said. “Not only are they fun, but we get to be together.”

This is his second year attending the canine-themed celebration.

Dogs of all kinds barked, played and made new friends on a beautiful warm early fall Sunday afternoon. Other than the peanut butter contest and walk, dogs could enjoy an obstacle course and show off their skills.

Numerous locally owned and countywide animal businesses also attended and gave out treats, coupons and gift baskets for these furry friends. If your dog desired, they were able to enjoy cold ice cream.

Dogs and their owners also had the chance to have their picture taken. Owners could create custom tags for their dogs as well.

On the flip side, the humans attending could enjoy snow cones and chili cheese hot dogs while mingling with fellow dog lovers. Music boomed throughout Deicke as Huntley’s very own DJ Don emceed the event.  

A “no leash zone” was also available and gave dogs the chance to run free, within a gated area, and play with their new friends. Owners could also play and put dogs up for adoption from the Huntley Animal Shelter.

The event came to a close, but playful barks could still be heard as families lingered to talk with other families.

“It is always great to see people together,” Kowalski said. “With their dogs or not, it is great to come together as a community to have some fun.”