CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — The signal to summer’s impending end commenced Aug. 9 as canines of all shapes and sizes took over a portion of downtown. The third annual Dog Days of Summer brought approximately 300 attendees to Aberdeen Street —many of them waging their tales in delight.

According to volunteer Irene Kratzer, the event was a success. Sarah Walker, who recently moved to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, brought her dog, Bud, to the event for the first time. “It’s nice to know the community is dog-friendly,” she said.

Indeed, the Cardiff 101 Chamber-sponsored event rolled out the red carpet for pooches. In addition to a challenging obstacle course, canines participated in a variety of contests with titles ranging from “Best Kisser” to “Dog-Owner Look Alike.”

“This is just one of those events that brings everyone together for a good cause to have some fun,” Encinitas resident Jared Smith said. “I didn’t do the limbo contest,” he said with a chuckle. “It was more fun to watch.”

A portion of the proceeds from the event benefited the Rancho Coastal Humane Society.