What Big Brown Eyes You Have

Wrinkly browed and barrel-chested, pugs aren’t ugly--they’re simply a breath of fresh air in a town paved with tummy tucks and nose jobs. On a recent Sunday at Pasadena’s Memorial Park, 500 pug lovers celebrated their small charges at the Great Pug-Out, a benefit organized by the Pasadena-based nonprofit group Little Angels Pug Rescue. After the pug pledge of allegiance and a rousing rendition of the pug national anthem, sung to the tune of “When the Saints Come Marchin’ In,” we met a few of the guests.

Archie

age: 3

Owner: Katie Larrabee, Moreno Valley

Amazing owner trick: She shops for Archie’s wardrobe at kids clothing stores.

in the dog’s closet: Laker uniform, Santa Claus suit, swim trunks, sweaters.

Quote: “He breaks out in hives. He’s a sensitive soul.”

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Banditt and Daisy

Ages: 6 and 4, respectively

Owner: Karen Shinn, Sun Valley

Amazing owner trick: She sews all their outfits.

In the dogs’ closet: Pilgrim costume, Hawaiian grass skirt and lei, tuxedo.

Quote: “Even though they snore, they’re great bed companions.”

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Mugsy

Age: 9

Amazing pug trick: Once rose from the dead.

Owner: Glen Freese, Santa Ana

Amazing owner trick: Administered mouth-to-mug resuscitation when Mugsy’s head got stuck in a plastic cup.

Quote: “He’s my constant companion. He’s worth his weight in gold.”

* Sally

Age: 17

Amazing pug trick: Eats clay.

Owners: Barbara and Scott Ramp, Pasadena

Amazing owner trick: They spend more than $2,000 a year in veterinary bills.

Quote: “If we gave her rocks, she’d eat them.”