Bark BBQ ushers in Halloween season with Barktober Fest

Halloween isn’t just for humans. Thanks to Bark BBQ, a dog-centered business near Arlington Heights’ border with Buffalo Grove, pets were also able to get into the act during Barktober Fest.

At least 600 dogs and their owners attended the canine bazaar, held Sunday in the parking lot of the Terramere Plaza shopping center.

A pet costume contest, family activities and local vendors contributed to the festive atmosphere. Because of the outdoor nature of the event, it was held in early October to take advantage of more favorable weather.

Other highlights included pumpkin carving for children and trick-or-treating for pets and people. The Buddy Foundation also was on hand to raise awareness about pet rescue and adoption.

“We are definitely trying to work with all of our local rescues to make sure that we bring awareness to that,” said Anna Shchekin, who co-owns Bark BBQ with her mother, Lena Mondreti.

Food vendors included a pierogi truck and lobster truck. Among the pet-focused vendors was Doggy Gym and Swim, a Rolling Meadows business offering swimming lessons and water therapy with an underwater treadmill for dogs recovering from surgery.

The pet costume contest drew more than 60 entries, with a dog named Elton John sporting a mini piano and another dressed as Chucky of “Child’s Play” among the three winners.

Arlo, a 5⅟₂-year-old black pug who came dressed as a shower loofah, grabbed second place. Arlo's owners, Park Ridge residents Melissa and John Sagat, said their dog has acquired quite the social media following.

“He's on Instagram. He has 14,000 followers,” said Melissa Sagat. “It's nice to see all the other people, all the other dogs, and bring smiles to everybody's faces.”