When it comes to the Humane Society of Pike County’s annual Pet Photo Contest, cats rule.

So, it’s time for the dogs to get off the porch and give the cats a run for their money, said Lisa Howard, Pet Photo Contest coordinator.

“The first two years of the Pet Photo Contest, cats have been the winners,” Howard said. “So, this year, we are hoping that the dogs will put their best faces forward and give the cats some real competition.”

The annual Pet Photo Contest is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Pike County and helps fund its spay and neuter and feral cat programs and also the society’s in-school educational programs directed toward the humane treatment of all animals.

“Entries are now being accepted for this year’s contest and the winner will be featured on the cover of our 2011 Pet Photo calendar,” Howard said. The other top 12 entries will be the monthly features. We’ll also have weekly features and all entries will be included on the calendar. The calendars will be available for purchase in November.”

Entries must include an 8×10 photo, either black and white or color, a completed entry form and a $10 donation to the Humane Society of Pike County.

“You may enter as many times as you like, but each photo requires a separate entry form and $10 donation,” Howard said. “Entries will be accepted through August 2.”

Entry forms may be picked up at the Troy Public Library, Trojan Animal Clinic, Troy Animal Clinic, Pike Animal Hospital, Jones Animal Clinic in Brundidge, Bows and Bubbles, Troy Pets, Sisters Restaurant and The Messenger.

Voting will begin on August 9 and continue through September 15. Votes are $1 each and can be done at designated locations or by mail to Pet Photo Contest, P.O. Box 296, Troy, AL 36081 and postmarked before or on Sept. 15.

Entries and the number of votes may be viewed online at www.pikehumane.org.