Cute Dogs in Costume: The Whole Enchihuahua

SF SPCA

Last Year's Winner: Chiquita the Chihuahua

The mighty Chihuahua once served as the companion to the Mayan civilization. Evidence points to the dogs participating in religious ceremonies. The Chihuahua is considered one of the oldest dog breeds within the American Kennel Club, and it deserves respect for having such a noble heritage.

Today, however, the Chihuahua has fallen from its once grand pedestal to become one of the most popular breeds in need of rescue. A Chihuahua overpopulation has struck the city, with a lot of the pups landing in shelters. The San Francisco SPCA and other organizations this weekend ask pet lovers to come celebrate this breed -- and learn more about the overpopulation issue -- while getting some laughs at an event called The While Enchihuahua. It happens tomorrow (Saturday, June 2) in Dolores Park.

SF SPCA

The event includes a doggie costume contest, in which all breeds are welcome to participate. Three grand prizes are available for the sassiest pooch out there, with the first 100 registered receiving a dish voucher from Off the Grid. Registration starts at noon and ends at 1 p.m.

The pooches will then strut their stuff on the dogwalk between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Other goodies include "Ask a Vet with Dr. Goh," a prize wheel, Smooch the Pooch with Alice the Chihuahua, and a Mariachi performance. Pets available for adoption are there too, from the SF SPCA, Animal Care & Control, and SF Rescue.

Last year the winner was Chiquita the Chihuahua, who rocked the Frida Kahlo look. Personally, we'd like to see the Salvador Dali Chihuahua complete with a tiny cape, curled mustache, and all.

The Whole Enchihuahua starts at noon at Dolores Park (566 Dolores), S.F. Admission is free.