CLARKESVILLE, GA — Rhinestone collars, sequined leashes, and wagging tails took center stage at Aerial Mountain Springs on Saturday, August 23, as dozens of local pet owners gathered for the second annual Dogs of Summer Pet Pageant. The playful competition raised $500 to support the mission of the Habersham County Animal Shelter.
Hosted by The Cute North Georgian magazine, the event blended lighthearted fun with a serious purpose—helping animals in need. Guests cheered their canine contestants through categories including Best Costume, Most Dapper, Swimsuit, Talent, and the coveted Mr. and Mrs. Dog of Summer.
Pageant winners
Cheryl Clickner, Brittany Tilly, and Kristen LaShoto of First Baptist Church of Cornelia judged the pet pageant.
“The competition is fierce. It’s so hard to choose,” said Clickner.
“I didn’t know it would be so tough; however, I love Maggie Mae,” added Kristen LaShoto, who cast her vote for the winning “Mrs. Dog of Summer.”
Harvey – Best Costume
Ollie & Mylo – Most Dapper
Arlo Tilly – Swimsuit Competition
Honeybee – Most Talented
Maggie Mae – Mrs. Dog of Summer
Taurus – Host’s Favorite
For Honeybee’s mom, Molly Waltman Moncure, the pageant revealed her pup’s hidden drive.
“Thank you again for hosting! It was lots of fun and we will watch for the next event,” Moncure said. “Honey is super sweet, but now I see she has a competitive edge—she was in it to win it.”
The event also honored the late Charlie McCurry, winner of the 2024 Ugliest Dog Contest, dedicating this year’s pageant to his memory.
Community support on display
Alongside the pageant, a silent auction helped boost proceeds with donations from local businesses, including Holden Oversoul Kitchen & Oyster Bar, Mr. Biscuit’s Café, FarmHouse PoundCakes, Amanda’s Farm to Fork at The Tea Room, and Nosh by Kelly Young.
Venue owner Brittany Grella opened the picturesque lakeside property at Aerial Mountain Springs to host the evening. Guests enjoyed food, drinks, and plenty of laughs as pets strutted their stuff under the summer sunset.
The goodness in this good-hearted event
While the atmosphere was lighthearted, the fundraiser met an urgent need. The Habersham County Animal Shelter continues to operate beyond capacity, with staff and volunteers working daily to provide food, medical care, and housing for stray and surrendered animals.
Habersham County Animal Care and Control Director Madi Nix praised the effort and its impact.
“It always makes the Animal Control Officer in me so incredibly proud to see events with well-mannered, well-restrained, and friendly socialized pets all interacting!” added Nix. “Responsible pet owners for the win!”
Nix thanked The Cute North Georgian Magazine and everyone who made the second annual Dogs of Summer “so much fun!”
“Adoptable Harvey loved showing off what a great guy he really is out of the shelter setting. The venue was beautiful, and the company was top-notch!” she said.
Proceeds from the event will go toward ‘buy owner’ items needed for the new animal shelter, which is now under construction in Cornelia. Such items include play yard toys, furniture, and veterinary tools that will improve the care and quality of life for shelter animals and staff.
“What moved me most was seeing so many people across our community share their talents and resources to serve those who could never repay them. I am grateful to all who platformed and contributed towards this event,” said organizer Carly McCurry. “We can’t wait until Dogs of Summer 2026.”
