The Suffolk Humane Society is gearing up for its second annual Passion for Paws Picnic and Wine Tasting Sept. 8.

Sponsored by M&M Hospitality Group, River Stone Chophouse and Vintage Tavern, the event will be held at the chop house, 8032 Harbour View Boulevard, from noon to 4 p.m.

“This family and dog-friendly event will feature wonderful picnic food, fabulous wines, live music, dog costume contest, children’s activities, vendors, a silent auction and a wine auction and more,” according to Humane Society officials.

Guests are encouraged to bring their best friends — human, canine or one of each species — to support Suffolk Humane’s mission to find forever homes for pets.

“Well-behaved, vaccinated dogs are welcome and can get in free with a paying human,” the release states.

Event chair Teresa Mullin said folks had been asking when the event would be held this year, after 2012’s inaugural picnic was deemed a big success.

“They love being able to bring the entire family, including their four-legged children, to a wonderful outdoor event, and we are excited to announce the second one,” she stated.

“We have moved the event from the summer to the fall, and we look forward to an even bigger crowd turning out to help the community’s homeless pets, enjoy an afternoon with their pets and enjoy great food and wine and maybe take home some wonderful auction items.”

Tickets cost $15 for adults and $8 children 10 and under in advance, and $20 for adults and $8 for children on the day of the event.

Wine tasting tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, and tickets can be purchased at both restaurants — Vintage Tavern is located at 1900 Governors Pointe Drive — the Suffolk Humane office at 4300 Nansemond Parkway, and Mike Duman Auto Sales, 2300 Godwin Blvd.

Folks can attend the event without purchasing food or wine tickets, and more information is available at www.riverstonechophouse.com.

Those who don’t have a pet to accompany them will be able to adopt one at the event.

Suffolk Humane promotes the welfare of companion animals by sponsoring spay/neuter programs, placing homeless animals in permanent homes and providing humane education with an emphasis on responsible pet ownership.

Visit www.SuffolkHumaneSociety.com for information on the group’s activities and to view the up-to-date photos of the adoptable animals at Suffolk Animal Control.