Where to go in Putnam County: Bark at the Park

This year's Bark at the Park is scheduled for May 19th at Valley Park in Hurricane, WV.

Details are still being worked out and subject to change, but so far we're looking forward to another fun time!

Police dogs will be there.  I always enjoy this, as I generally like cops anyway (my brother is one) and I'm a doggie fan.  I met a police drug dog and his trainer at another function once.  I asked the policewoman how she knew if someone had drugs.  She told me her dog would sit.  Just then, an adorable little girl walked up holding a smalled stuffed toy.  The dog sat.  The policewoman and I looked at each other, and after a pause she told me, "He wants the toy."  Aaah!  (Wish my dogs would sit politely when they want something!) 

There will be doggie crafts and T-shirts for sale.  There's a new Bark in the Park logo this year designed by Brooks Dailey, a second year graphic design student at the Putnam Career and Technical Center in Eleanor.  You'll be able to purchase items imprinted with his cute logo to raise awareness of the event.  (Yay, Brooks!)

A special demonstration of how to make doggie treats at home should be especially popular this year.  With the pet food scare we've all had, I think more and more people will be cooking for their pooches. 

Pets from our Putnam Animal Relief Center will be available for adoption.  Last year some were walked through the crowds wearing little "Adopt Me" coats, which I thought was an excellent marketing ploy on the part of these homeless pups.  Aren't they clever?  Don't forget the kittens!  As this event is held during kitten season, I bet there will be kittens available for adoption as well.  Cats are best enjoyed in groups, make sure you have at least two.  If you are lacking in the pet department, you can fill the void here.

At last year's Bark in the Park, events included a dog wash, 1 mile dog walk, agility demonstrations and microchipping.  (I need to get Houdini Dog Pepper microchipped!) 

I look forward to this year's Bark in the Park and plan to buy one of Brooks' shirts.  Hope to see you there!