Happy Howl'oween: Dogs dress up for world's largest Halloween pet event

The Haute Dog Howl'oween parade in Long Beach, California claims to be the largest Halloween pet event in the world, with over 400 dogs and their handlers dressed in elaborate costumes to celebrate one of the most popular dress-up events of the year.

Now in its 16th year, the Halloween parade is led by local children dressed in spooky costumes, followed by a long line of participants – both canine and human – while judges sit on the sidelines and assess each costume. There are various prizes to be one, including best costume on a dog, best costume on a person walking a dog in the parade, best group (which consists of at least two dogs and persons) and best floats which have a dog sat on top. AFP photographer Mark Ralston attended the fabulous parade, photographing some of the best costumes: