By Jon Tharp, Broker · October 27, 2026
At a Glance
Foothills Humane Society held its 2026 Mutt Strutt on Saturday, Oct. 24, in downtown Columbus, with a costumed dog parade, look-alike contests, vendors, raffles and adoptable dogs. Patrick was named the 2026-27 Polk County Dog Commissioner, succeeding Murphy. Proceeds benefit the no-kill organization at 989 Little Mountain Road in Columbus, and an after-party followed at Iron Key Brewing Company.
Patrick was named the 2026-27 Polk County Dog Commissioner on Saturday, Oct. 24, during Foothills Humane Society's annual Mutt Strutt in downtown Columbus.
The event brought together dogs, their owners and animal lovers, and many of the dogs showed up in costume. It benefited Foothills Humane Society, a nonprofit, no-kill animal welfare organization.
What happened at the 2026 Mutt Strutt in Columbus?
Check-in started at Stearns Park at 1 p.m. At 2 p.m., owners walked their dogs through downtown in the parade, many of them in costume.
The afternoon included costume and dog-and-owner look-alike contests, along with vendors, raffles and adoptable dogs. The celebration continued at Iron Key Brewing Company with the Mutt Strutt After-Pawty.
Who is Polk County's new Dog Commissioner?
That honor goes to Patrick, who succeeds Murphy, the 2025-26 Dog Commissioner. Organizers tallied votes ahead of the event to determine the winner.
Any news about former shelter residents?
There was good news for O'Darby, a former shelter resident who found a home. Several other former residents returned for the festivities.
Who helped make the Mutt Strutt happen?
Foothills Humane Society thanked its sponsors, vendors and contributors, including Big Head Barkery, Laughing Dog Creations by Tom, artist Cara Nelsen, and authors Mary Lutz Alexander and Bethany Snipes. Organizers also recognized the volunteers whose time and talents support the organization's work.
How can you support Foothills Humane Society?
Proceeds from the Mutt Strutt benefit Foothills Humane Society, located at 989 Little Mountain Road in Columbus. For information about adoptable animals, volunteer opportunities and other programs, visit foothillshumanesociety.org.
The Tryon Daily Bulletin first reported this story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the 2026-27 Polk County Dog Commissioner?
Patrick was named the 2026-27 Polk County Dog Commissioner at the Mutt Strutt on Oct. 24, 2026. Patrick succeeds Murphy, who held the title for 2025-26. Votes were tallied ahead of the event.
Where is Foothills Humane Society in Columbus?
Foothills Humane Society is located at 989 Little Mountain Road in Columbus. Information on adoptable animals and volunteer opportunities is available at foothillshumanesociety.org.
About the Author
Jon Tharp is a licensed NC real estate broker with Keller Williams. He's helped buyers and sellers across Western North Carolina for over 10 years, specializing in mountain homes, land, and short-term rental investments, with offices throughout WNC covering all mountainous areas. If something in this post has you thinking about a move, he's easy to reach — (828) 347-9055 or smokymountainhomes4sale.com or Jon@jontharphomes.com.
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