Who let the dogs out?

There is no report on how embarrassed the dogs are to be seen in ribbons, bows, tutus and whatnot, but they'll be back in all their finery Sunday for Chattanooga Market.

It's the American Cancer Society's annual Bark for Life Day at First Tennessee Pavilion, the only day when patrons can bring their canine friends to the open-air market.

The day will feature activities and contests, including a dog walk, doggie fashion show and game of musical dogs (think: musical chairs).

Last year, according to Christy Johnson of the local American Cancer Society, nearly $10,000 was raised for the organization's services in Hamilton County.

"That's phenomenal for a couple of hours for people and their dogs," she said.

The top 12 fundraisers for the event will appear in the local organization's Bark for Life calendar. The top fundraiser gets the cover. To solicit funds, dogs, in lieu of their owners, often "write" to potential donors.

The dog-friendly event also hosts groomers, trainers, veterinarians, dog biscuit peddlers and other vendors associated with dogs.

Johnson said last year's doggie fashion show showcased everything from a Dachshund in a pink skirt to a Great Dane in a tutu to a "big white dog" with manicured nails and bows.

One dog received seven outfit changes, she said. "I love my dogs," she said, "but goodness!"

The 1 p.m. doggie walk, which skirts the Finley Stadium complex, has registration at 11 a.m. and opening ceremony at 12:15 p.m. Participants receive a T-shirt and a banda

na for their canine friend.

Advance registration (www.chattanoogamarket.com) is $20 per dog/human team and includes a bandanna/T-shirt. The fee is $25 the day of the event.

Contact Clint Cooper at ccooper@timesfreepress.com. Subscribe to his posts online at Facebook.com/ClintCooper CTFP.