Halloween has gone to the dachshunds.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Emily Enoch

Forget ghosts and ghouls, Kelowna residents are dressing up their frankfurt-sized dogs in cute costumes and parading them around town.

Every year, Emily Enoch, organizer of the annual Howl-O-Weenie, has encouraged the dress-up of dachshunds, a staple event that started as a way to lift people’s spirits in the cold weather, she said.

The idea came to her as she saw people were doing it in other countries and since then, the event has been growing since its inception in 2015. The year prior to the pandemic saw at least 100 weiner dogs parading through the streets.

“We have started to get sponsors who provide treat bags for the dogs as well,” she said.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Emily Enoch

The pandemic has caused some modifications to the annual Howl-O-Weenie, with last year’s being held as a split event with masks. This year, the event will be held Oct. 30 around Kelowna’s downtown and at the Dolphin statue but Enoch said she didn’t want to give the time of the event to avoid spectators during the pandemic.

The group's popularity also has a farther reach than the Okanagan.

“I never know for certain in advance who's coming but we have people in our club from all over the Okanagan and surrounding areas including Alberta, other provinces and even a few sport the Kelowna Dachshund Club logo bumper sticker in other countries,” she said.

She never knew the breed was so popular prior to starting the Kelowna Dachshund Club and said it might be because they have such an entertaining appearance.

“My favourite part about organizing it is seeing all the costumes and getting out with like-minded people. There are a lot of people with anxiety, depression, social phobias and as I am told these events help them get out and meet new friends,” Enoch said, who also has her own dachshund named Ruby.

Some of the most unique costumes she’s seen over the years have been one themed after The Handmaid’s Tale, Game of Thrones and a dachshund club airline.

Those who are interested in joining the event can get more information by searching for the Kelowna Dachshund Club on Facebook.

(CARLI BERRY - WEEKEND EDITOR / iNFOnews.ca)

(CARLI BERRY - WEEKEND EDITOR / iNFOnews.ca)

(CARLI BERRY - WEEKEND EDITOR / iNFOnews.ca)

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