Pam Mackey says it was the best Elvis wig she’d ever seen. That the
wig — and sunglasses and cape — were on a dog … well, all
the better.
That be-wigged dog was a participant in the annual Harbor Town Dog
Show, which returns to Mud Island’s Nursery Park this Sunday. The dog
show is for the canine residents of the island, but it draws people
from all over the city. “It’s a light-hearted thing,” says Mackey, who
is the event chairperson.
The show, which benefits the Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby
County, includes competitions in obstacle course, “sexiest walk,”
pet/owner look-alikes, best costume, and silliest pet trick. According
to Mackey, the costume contest is a big draw. Last year, two residents
teamed up for a Gilligan’s Island theme and built their own
boat. Another favorite is the silliest pet trick. Mackey says one
Harbor Town resident teaches his dog a new trick each year. Last year,
that dog was taught to fetch a tissue every time the owner sneezed.
While there will be food vendors onsite, those who donate $25 will
gain admission to the “Green Room,” a VIP tent with ringside seating,
gourmet food and wine for the bipeds, and gourmet biscuits and water
for the dogs.
“The event starts at 1 p.m.,” Mackey says, “and the laughing doesn’t
stop until 4.”
