More than 60 proud pet owners rushed to enter their dogs in Orland Township’s Pet Contests at the 8th annual Pet-Palooza, according to the office of Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady.
The contests that these talented pets participated in were: Best Voice, Best Dressed, Best Trick, Quick Sit (dog version of musical chairs) and new this year: Bobbing for Hotdogs and Fast Finish (eating peanut butter off a stick).
“While our contests have always been popular with residents, this is the first time we’ve had any contests close due to being at capacity,” said Supervisor O’Grady. “While the Best Dressed is usually the most popular contest, it, along with Bobbing for Hotdogs, Quick Finish and Quick Sit all hit capacity before sign-up was closed.”
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Andy Avalos from NBC Chicago served as the contest emcee for the second year in a row. In addition to Supervisor O’Grady, other contest judges were Orland Township Trustee Antonio Rubino, State Representative Bob Rita, and American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen evaluator and professional dog trainer Angie DePalma.
“I want to thank Andy Avalos from NBC Chicago for spending a Saturday with Orland Township to emcee our contests,” said Supervisor O’Grady. “I also want to thank my co-judges for taking on the tough, yet fun task of judging the contests – a great time was had by everyone.”
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“The pet contests are one of my favorite parts of Pet-Palooza,” said Trustee Rubino. “I really enjoy being a judge and seeing all the creativity and talent that Orland Township residents and their dogs put on display.”
Ribbons were awarded to the top three contestants in each category.
Orland Township’s 8th Annual Pet-Palooza took place on Saturday, Sept. 14 on the Orland Township grounds, 14807 S. Ravinia.
