MADISON – Local dogs will transform into celebrities during the 28th annual Dog Ball at Von Braun Center on Feb. 2.

Greater Huntsville Humane Society hosts the gala, which is the society’s largest fundraiser to help provide food, medical care and spaying/neutering services for homeless animals in the greater Huntsville area. The fun-filled evening will include a dinner, activities throughout the night and plenty of fun and jokes.

“Rocket Dogz” is the ball’s 2018 theme. Doors will open at 5:45 p.m. to Von Braun Center’s South Hall. Registration is $80 per person.

Fifty-plus ‘Very Important Dogs or VIDs will make their runway debut and spend some time visiting with guests. These dogs range from rare pure breeds to everyday mixed breeds, but they all share one quality — their owners and families love them. Individuals interested in participating in the VID runway show can visit thedogball.org.

Along with the celebrity canines, a group of shelter dogs that are available for adoption will make their debuts on the runway.

More than 100 local businesses have donated items for the event’s silent auction. Before the runway show, a live auction will be presented and include three hand-painted fire hydrants, creatively designed by local artists. American Flow Control, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fire hydrants, donated the hydrants.

Guests will have a chance for tickets to Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

In 2017, more than 800 guests attended the event, which generated $100,000-plus to care and find homes for some of the area’s abused and neglected animals.

Shannon Seigle is event coordinator. Sue Morgan serves as publicist.

Corporate sponsorships are available. For reservations of corporate and individual seating, call 256-881-8081 or visit thedogball.org.