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Rover and Bowser can join their families in North Park on Sunday for "Bark in the Park," a charity event that includes a fundraising walk, a party, food and a doggie pageant.

"Bark in the Park," sponsored by the Ohio Township-based Animal Friends -- a no-kill shelter -- is in its 12th year and has grown from its early days as a picnic for volunteers and adopters, shelter officials say. Last year, more than 800 dogs and at least 1,000 people participated, and raised about $50,000 for the shelter's programs for animals, says Jolene Miklas, communications coordinator for Animal Friends.

Kids, adults and pooches all have a blast at "Bark in the Park," Miklas says.

"We think all ages will have a great time," she says. "We have everyone from little kids and parents pushing strollers, to grandmas and grandpas as well. There really is something for everybody."

Walkers can register online, and get family and friends to make online donations, which will support the shelter beyond the $25 registration fee. Participants can either walk alone, on the approximately one-mile trail, or with their dogs. Walkers can sign up on the day of the event, but shelter officials prefer that they register by Friday, Miklas says.

The "Rally for Fun" party includes food vendors, a showcase of pets available for adoption from Animal Friends, and live music by Jack, a Western Pennsylvania folk-rock and blues band. The "Mighty Mutt" amateur dog show, a first this year, is open to all dogs, who will compete for prizes including "Best Kisser" and "Longest Tail."

"Bark in the Park," the shelter's second-largest fundraiser of the year, responds to the public's desire to enjoy events where they can bring their animals, or interact with animals, Miklas says.

"We've always wanted to celebrate and nurture the bond that people share with their animals," she says.

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