This year’s Lake Lanier Pet Fest promises something the whole family can howl about, in a good way.
Partnering with the Dixie Dock Dog diving competition for the first time, the three-day weekend event was originally conceived to reinforce responsible pet ownership practices and encourage the adoption of shelter animals.
The diving contests begin today and concludes on Sunday with competitors coming from as far as Montreal. Dogs leap and soar for distance, height, or speed from a dock into water. Anyone is invited to enter a dog that is at least six months old and current on all shots.
Pet Fest events for less athletic dogs start on Saturday and include a mutt strut, a costume contest and a tongue-in-cheek ugliest dog award.
Bill Akin, president of Dixie Dock Dogs, said there will be lots of activities for dogs and their humans.
“Your pet doesn’t have to be especially agile to participate in the diving activities,” Akin said. “You’ll see a lot of highly trained and amazing dogs competing, but anyone’s dog can take practice dives with the help of a trainer in between the competitions for just $10.”
Other activities include herding demonstrations, an interactive pet zone, music, food, and various children’s activities provided by the Georgia Mountains YMCA.
An on-site professional pet photographer will snap photos of owners with their dog for a take-home memory. Even better, attendees can leash up a furry friend from the adoption tent featuring pets from the Hall County Animal Shelter. A solo performance by Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls on Sunday closes out the event.
A $5 parking fee is required for all vehicles as well as entry into the “for fun” competitions. All Pet Fest proceeds benefit the Hall County Animal Shelter. Portions of the $25 registration fee for dock diving benefit Chase Away Canine Cancer (www. chaseawayk9cancer.org). Akin’s dog Hoppy will also accept donations at the event.
“We have two dogs entered in the diving competition and Hoppy, our cheerleader and philanthropist, will walk around the event wearing a vest with pockets so folks can donate whatever they like to the charity,” said Akin. “She’ll give you kisses if you do.”
Event preview
Lake Lanier Pet Fest and Dixie Dock Dog Diving Competition
11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Friday;
8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday;
9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
Laurel Park, 3100 Old Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville 31061. 678-450-1587, www.dixiedockdogs.com/pet_fest.php , lakelanierpetfest.com .
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