Jim Brooks of Ramrod Key, Fla., checks the positioning of a mylar balloon affixed to his “Balloon Dog” Brutus during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade staged Wednesday, Oct. 28, in Key West, Fla. Brooks designed the costume in parody of the alleged “Balloon Boy” hoax involving a Colorado couple who reported their young son had been carried aloft by a runaway homemade balloon. The Pet Masquerade is a highlight of Key West’s Fantasy Fest, a 10-day costuming and masking festival that continues through Sunday, Nov. 1. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY (Rob O’Neal/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO)