Leslie Kennedy, veteran pageant winner and emcee, former star of NYCTV25’s Doggie Moms, and owner of Kennedy Art Productions, created the event. “Any dog is eligible – young, old, male or female, full breed or mixed, big or small – all are welcome,” she said, “We’ve had male and female winners, mixed breeds, even a big dog, a pittie won one year! It’s so fun to see all these cute dogs and to experience the love they share with their parents!”

Academy of Hair Design and BeVelle Barber School owner Christie Gonzales, is the Local Affiliate Director of the Austin pageant. “We were looking for a creative and fun way to give back to the community and help our Dream Beauty Academy in Rwanda while providing an exciting event for fellow pet lovers when I found the Barking Beauty Pageant! It’s a perfect fit and we’re so looking forward to what we hope will become a yearly highlight in our community,” she said.