The Hawaiian Humane Society will be holding its annual Canine Game Day — complete with dog contests, costumes and a parade — today in Thomas Square, near the Blaisdell Center.

"It's our mahalo event to the community," said Katie Burleson, the Humane Society's special event coordinator. "We want to give people the chance to bring their dogs out to a public area and celebrate the bond that they have."

Weiner Derby Races start at 10 a.m. Dachshunds will test their ability to dash 50 yards without wandering off-course to sniff something or inexplicably sauntering back to the starting area.

Other contest highlights: timed hotdog-eating and canine pushups, and costumes — dogs dressed up for everything from hula to a football game have turned up at previous contests.

The parade will feature 10 dogs eligible for adoption. Dog walkers will stroll the park, at South Beretania Street and Ward Avenue, with the pooches, each wearing a Humane Society bandana.

Last year, more than 5,800 pets — 2,300 cats, 2,800 dogs and about 740 guinea pigs, rabbits, birds and other animals —were adopted from the Hawaiian Humane Society, Burleson said.

The free event, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., also offers a doggie cool-down wading pool area and food booths.

In addition, there will be a $25 photo opportunity, Sur-RUFF's Up! — snapping digital shots that appear to capture your dog surfing with Diamond Head in the background. You'll get a photo CD, and proceeds go to the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Find more information at www.hawaiianhumane.org.