Jacksonville, Florida went to the dogs Saturday as nearly 4,000 people and their canine pals came to this year's Dogtoberfest.

The fundraiser for St. Francis Service Dogs drew poodles, pomeranians, beagles, boxers, and every other breed for dog classes, prizes, parades, diving, and a slew of other activities.

St. Francis Service Dogs trains dogs to aid the disabled but receives no government funding, depending entirely on donations and events for its budget.

Ribbit or bark? Slugo walked in the Dogtoberfest wearing a frog costume

Doggie paddlel: Savannah, owned by Kelly Waltz, cooled off in a kiddie pool at the fundraiser for homeless pets

The annual festival is held on the organization's 18-acre north Roanoke County campus.

This year's events included doggie limbo, doggie dice role and Let's Make a Doggie Deal.

Owners could also indulge their pets with a sinful 'pupsicles' before treating them at a doggie day spa.

Bow wow: Serena Bass primped dog Cash before the "Best Pair" category in the costume contest

Going to the dogs: A young girl wearing the Dogtoberfest mascot costume, takes a break to cool off

Dogs also competed for prizes in four categories: Funniest Costume, Scariest Costume, Most Team Spirit, and Best Pair.

Winners competed for a Best in Show prize.

This is the eighth annual Dogtoberfest as the event continues to attract more visitors every year.

Mine! A dog chases after a ball during Saturday's fundraiser

Lunge: Dogs flew across the pool in the Ultimate Air Dogs dock dive


source:dailymail