What’s up for Dog Day?

The question

Dog lovers of all ages will descend up on Stage Fort Park in Gloucester on Saturday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for Cape Ann Animal Aid’s Dog Day. The event draws an estimated 300 people annually – not to mention a great deal of canine companions – and has grown in popularity since its inception in 2003. What is Cape Ann Animal Aid’s Dog Day?

The answer

“It was started as an event for families to do with their dogs, as well as a fundraiser for the shelter,” explains Nancy Tarbox, PR Coordinator for Cape Ann Animal Aid. “This is a fun event that brings dog owners together with each other, and it also gives families a chance to do things together with their dogs without spending a lot of money.” Both families and dogs are invited to participate in a variety of activities, including an expo featuring various vendors and community groups, agility courses, contests and games for dogs, dog nail-trimming, low-cost micro-chipping for dogs, demonstrations, activities for kids like bouncy houses, raffles, prizes, food and drinks. There is a $10 participation fee for all dog activities, and the first 100 participants get a free T-shirt commemorating the event. “This is a great chance for adults, dogs and children to do something together,” says Tarbox. “The agility course helps children to bond with their dogs, as well as adults. The event brings pet-owners together, which helps them to learn from each other. People get a chance to see pet businesses and learn how they can make their relationship with their pets less stressful and more fun. This is a good chance for many pet businesses to show people what they have to offer. This is also an inexpensive event for the whole family.”