Barkitecture Houston Tour and Charity Auction, benefiting Pup Squad Animal Rescue, calls on local artists, designers and architects to create stylish and functional doghouses. This year, Barkitecture Houston highlights more than 20 different entries from some of the city's most talented firms.

The festivities kick off Oct. 18 with a special "Yappy Hour" where the community is invited to bring their pooch and enjoy drinks, raffle drawings and door prizes on the McCormick and Schmick's patio, 5-9 p.m. Cronkite, the beagle from News 92 FM, will be on-hand to check out each participant's handiwork.

The fun continues on Oct. 19 with the official Barkitecture auction and "Art + Bark" photo exhibit. From noon to 5 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to bid on and take home their favorite entries. In addition, the Barkitecture Houston Steering Committee judges will select their favorite submissions. Entries will also be awarded in the People's Choice and Kid's Choice categories.