England has Crufts, New York has Westminister and Canada has the Purina National, a prestigious dog show in partnership with kennel clubs across Canada. Come catch the action as the Purina National takes over the Western Fair District Agriplex in nearby London, Ontario, from Oct. 17-19! 

Canada’s most prestigious dog show, the Purina National features top international judges and hundreds of purebreds from around the world competing for their share of honor and prize money. Show times are noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 

Pet Connection Programs Inc., a maternity and special care shelter for dogs and cats located in Marilla, will hold a chicken barbecue and Chinese auction from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, in the East Aurora Moose Lodge, 905 Main St. 

Dinners are take-out only and will include a half chicken from BW’s Barbecue plus a cream corn bake, mashed potatoes with gravy, homemade noodle salad, roll and dessert. The cost for the chicken dinner is just $9.50 per person.

(Welcome to our weekly pet column, courtesy of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla. We post a new article each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)

Halloween isn't just for kids. It's a great time for the whole family to spend together, including your precious pets. Here are the top five ways to encourage your four-legged little ones to join in on the festivities: