We continue to cover this summer’s furry festival fun-fare. This time the pup party takes us to Bowmanville, Ontario, just an hour east outside the T. Dot. Bark in the Park is out to celebrate pups everywhere and you, their beloved guardians.  This particular event holds a special place in my heart because this quaint little community became my home when I purchased my first house. It has a lovely small town feel with big city amenities contrasted with the big, open fields of local farmers. I can still remember the smell of strawberries when I opened the door to my backyard and the scattered strawberry pickers at Watson’s Farm, availing themselves of freshly picked sweetness.   Not too long later, our lab River was part of our home and family. He also enjoyed our walks through our beautiful quiet neighbourhood during the spring and summer and rolling around in the snow in the winter. I just wish that Bark in the Park had been around then.

Now we have Titan; a fitting name for our behemoth Berner, and it is a great excuse to go back and visit! Sandra Howlett, organizer of Bark in the Park, is revving up to host the third annual event and after reading the promo, the only thing that may be missing from this jam-packed two day event is fireworks! This festival is complete with contests, demos, lure course, swag bags, splash pools, interactive games, photo ops, food, toys, face painting and vendors. The vendors will offer a wide variety of options for all your pup’s needs. In addition to all the shopping, don’t miss out on visiting all the rescue groups like Homeward Bound Rescue, Boxer Rescue Ontario and Gentle Jake’s Coonhound Rescue.

But while Sandra knows how to throw a good pup party, she is also thinking of those who are less fortunate. Bark in the Park fund raises for Biggie and Frank’s Pet Food Bank located in Bowmanville. She is looking for treats, kitty litter, leashes and, of course, food. Many of the donations come from pet food stores but any donations are welcome. Any donations that you may give will go to cover the cost of the K-9 social event of the season. Sandra also has her own business selling unique, individualized pup tags. Proceeds will go to the donation of her special tags for rescue groups. (In case you are looking for one of your own check out her Apple Melon Designs page!) She also donates poop bags to the off leash parks in Bowmanville – and lets give a big thank you to Sandra for keeping the community clean.   (I know you’ve been there; an unexpected poop and no poop bag. Now what? You can’t be that person who pretends it didn’t happen and walks away… ummm hmmmm) Unfortunately, in this day and age, generosity is not exactly free, so any donations are greatly appreciated; especially since it goes back to the dog community.

Take a look at your calendars and make sure August 26-27 are free for some spectacular fun going on from 10:00am to 4:00pm! Our family, Titan included, will be there taking pictures and getting to know you and your pups. We are proud to be part of this festival and the official blog partner of Bark in the Park!

This great event has been catching on like wild fire amongst pet parents and their fur babies in recent years. Bark in the Park has grown from a small-scale event in a baseball field to this year’s Orono Fair Grounds at 2 Princess St., Orono! It will be a comfortable outing with lots of space for your pups to run around. Hopefully it will be a sunny day but don’t worry there is plenty of shade for you and your pups, washrooms, water, hydro, and buildings – an outdoor day with conveniences (that’s my kind of outing… I neeeeeed the conveniences!).

As you may have surmised this is no shabby drop in session – Bark in the Park has thought of everything! You’re going to get hungry with all the hustle and bustle so look for Smokes Poutinery, Greek food, or, if you’re looking for something more vegetarian, or something simple for the kids, there’s even grilled cheese. Wash it down with an ice-cold drink!

I’m really excited to go back to Bowmanville and participate in this puptacular event! The city has so much heart and its events like these that give it that family feeling. So, no matter where you’re living now, pick up your pup and head on over to Bark in the Park and come celebrate summer, family and, of course, your best four legged friend!