March 27, 2004 - It was a great day for the dogs and their owners.  The first annual Paws In Dawson was a chance to visit (both people and dogs), see obedience and agility demonstrations, a Frisbee catching contest, visit the Animal Midway consisting of dog food vendors, Animal Welfare groups from Atlanta, Pet Photography, and several Dog Breed Clubs from Atlanta for the event.  (Click on any photo to see it larger.) The ever popular "Pool Room Gang" was at the event with their dogs (with mustard, ketchup, relish, etc.), and other great edibles. Catherine Crabtree, Humane Society Pet Festival Chairperson, said "I'm really surprised at the great turnout today, it's almost overwhelming... I've met a lot of people, some great dogs, it's just wonderful this county has such a caring group of people."  (Catherine is pictured here with Little Bo, welcoming furry friends.) It was a great day for all types and sizes of dogs, from the smallest to the biggest. Even the Big Dog himself, from Big Dog Sportwear at the North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall, paid us a visit. Our demonstrations and contests occupied the center ring for much of the day.  Everyone enjoyed seeing the "dog who looks most like owner" contest, "smallest dog" contest, and others. Doc Mills announces the winners. Catherine Crabtree enjoys the contests. Tiffany Douglass (Dawson County Animal Control), Courtney Adams (Thompson Creek Animal Hospital), and Fran Hughes (Swan Center) were our judges. Vendors and non-profit groups set up their booths along the road to Toto Creek Park's campgrounds.  Many groups donated a share of their proceeds to the Dawson County Humane Society, or supplied raffle and auction items. The face painting booth is always a popular attraction. At the Humane Society Booth, talking with Doc Brandon Mills, DVM, and the society's President: "It sure is great to see this many people come to the first of what we envision as an annual event. We have dozens of Humane Society Volunteers here today, visiting with the attendees, speaking of the need for an Animal Shelter in Dawson County, discussing Spay/Neuter Programs, Pet Health and Hygiene, Pet Care, and the need for a Pet Adoption function that is in the planning stages with the Humane Society." Pictured left: our morning Pet Parade included many groups and individual walkers. Peyton Louden won a bicycle for raising the most money during the Paws For A Cause Pet Parade pledge drive! Our pet photographer wandered the park, capturing both formal portraits and candid moments. The Dawson County Humane Society would like to thank all of our sponsors!  Special recognition to the Dawson News and Advertiser, and to John Wilkins of Wilco Printing for your many contributions in helping us inform our friends about this event. (Photos by Bob Bybee Photography.  Text and additional photos provided by Jan Grimes.)