Cuteness Abounds At ‘Strutt Your Mutt’ Contest In North Caldwell

NORTH CALDWELL, NJ — It was a day for the dogs at Hilltop Park in North Caldwell.

Last week, Essex County officials hosted its annual “Strut Your Mutt Canine Halloween Costume Contest” at Hilltop Park and Branch Brook Park. The event – which also included a costume parade with local pooches – attracted some creative pet owners and their furry pals.

See photos from the event in North Caldwell below.

Eva Merk from North Caldwell and her dogs Zoey and Coco, who were dressed as itsy-bitsy spiders, won first place in the "cutest costume" category .

Nancy Howley from West Caldwell and her dog Louie, who was dressed as a cow, captured second place in the "cutest costume" category.

Joy Scally from Essex Fells and her dog William, who was dressed as the greatest show dog, won third place in the "cutest costume" category.

Rose Russo from North Caldwell and her dog Max, who was dressed as jelly belly, took home first place in the "most creative costume" category.

Shirley Chin from Caldwell and her dog Pip, who was dressed as Annie Oakley, for winning second place in the "most creative costume" category.

Valentina Nikolovu from East Hanover and her dog Beast, who was dressed as Harry Potter, captured third place in the "most creative costume" category.

Jody Sumner from Caldwell and her dog Reed, who were dressed as insect merit badge and boy scout, for winning first place in the "best group costume" category.

Amy and David Origlieri from Verona and their dog Ramona, who were dressed as little red riding hood and the big bad wolf, won second place in the "best group costume" category.

Holly Kirr from Wayne and her dog Charlie, who were dressed Harry Potter, took home third place in the "best group costume" category.

Robert and Leah Peter from Caldwell and their dog Bartholomew, who were dressed as pirates, won the "best in show" costume category.

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