Inaugural Bark in the Park Brings out a Crowd

Anyone who is anyone was at the Plaza this morning. They included Rugby (the Sonoma Patch winner of Cutest Dog in Sonoma), Ladybug (runner-up), Max and his bride, Wally and Watson, Chloe and a host of other canines vying for honors in the first . The event was presented by , a non-profit animal shelter.

Dogs enjoyed the attention and treats and, of course, the sniffing of each other's behinds—always a major highlight of any canine gathering. They were there to compete for awards such as best costume, the waggiest tail, the human-dog look-alike, etc.

Celebrity judges included ABC TV's former "Bachelor," , a Sonoma native and co-owner of a local winery, Envolve. He was joined by his fiancee, Courtney Robertson. The dogs did a Pooch Promenade in front of the judges, then went back to Depot Park to socialize. The judges' decisions will be announced at 1 p.m. at the park.

Humans enjoyed themselves, gathering with their coffees to connect over conversation, a meander in the park, a few laughs, face painting or a bounce in the jumper.

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