Why Is This Doggie All Dressed Up?

If you're at the today at around 5:30 p.m., you'll probably see a whole bunch of dogs wearing their holiday best, and their owners may be decked out as well.

Mall retailer maurices is presenting a pet-themed fashion show, which promises to be a whole lot of fun for dog lovers. The fashion show will feature adorable and adoptable pooches and supporters (who won't be up for adoption) of the Lake Humane Society in Mentor.

The show will benefit Rescue and Runaways, a national campaign program to increase awareness of animal shelters and adoption opportunities.

Starting at 6:30 p.m., the mall will also host "Pets, Paws & Claus." This family-friendly affair will feature pet photos with Santa Claus, pet adoption opportunities by the Lake Humane Society and pet products from local vendors.

"Pets, Paws and Claus is a great opportunity for holiday shoppers to include their pet in their family's holiday photo and purchase products for the pet lover on their shopping list," said Renee Lanzara, director of marketing and business development at the Great Lakes Mall.

The Golden Barkery, a local online bakery, will provide treats for pets and humans, too. The business will donate 10 percent from every purchase to animal rescue organizations.

Other vendors will include A1 Bed & Biscuit, a pet boarding resort and grooming salon and, For the Love of Pits, a Cleveland-area Pit Bull rescue organization, will feature a pet remembrance tree at Dillard's south entrance concourse providing guests the opportunity to write a memory or sentiment on an ornament that will hang from the tree.