Windward Beach Park will be transformed to a “Central Bark,” complete with Lawns of Labs, Fields of Fidos and a Rover-filled River with a Brindle Beach this Sunday. The occasion? The second annual Observation of Dog Fest organized by the Brick Township Rotary Club.
Donna Stump, the Chairperson for this year’s event, told Brick Patch she is looking forward to a high turnout at this year's event. Last year, hundreds of dogs and their dedicated companions turned out in droves to mingle with other dog lovers and their pups at the park, which has been formally declared "dog-friendly" for the special occasion by the township council.
This year’s festival will feature over 40 canine-centric vendors, exhibits, rescue groups and activities for all kinds of dogs. There is a $5 general admission fee per person, but for $20, a dog will be eligible to participate in a number of special events. The $20 includes the entrance fee for one adult, a t-shirt (while supplies last) and a chance for the dog to win a ribbon and a gift for their owner. All dogs entered can participate in the Pooch Parade for a chance to win the Chairman's Choice Trophy. All winners will also receive a complimentary photo by JJ Silvestri Photography.
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This year's Dog Fest also welcomes the Ocean County Veterinary Hospital, Maritime Pet Grooming and Sugar Plum Cottages, the maker of all-natural, low calorie dog treats, among others. The Blind Dog Rescue Alliance, Wag-on-Inn Pet Rescue and a booth collecting used linens and blankets for shelters will also be featured. Children will be able to make pet postcards that will go to help feed homeless pets across the nation.
Attendees may also purchase raffle tickets to benefit the Associates of Humane Society–Popcorn Park Zoo 2011 Save a Life Sweepstakes with a chance to win a 2012 Ford Focus.
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The event will also include a “Doggie Fashion Show," said Dina Silvestri, one of the organizers of Dog Fest.
"[It is] a fun new addition that we are welcoming to Dog Fest this year, as is a new radio partnership with Magic 100.1 FM," Silvestri said.
In the event of inclement weather, Dog Fest will be held the following Sunday, Sept. 25. Brick's recreation department will have carts available to transport people to the park if the lot is filled.
Dog Fest will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday, Sept. 18 at . All dogs must be leashed at all times. For a complete list of participants please visit the Brick Rotary's website.
Editor's Note: The date of Dog Fest listed in this article has been corrected to reflect Sunday, Sept. 18 rather than Saturday, Sept. 17.
