Enjoy a weekend of paws

A canine contestant shows off his athletic skills at last year’s Paws for Fun at Caroline County Fairgrounds.

BY CRAIG SCHULIN

We’re still trying to get to the bottom of this, but it seems their might be a canine conspiracy to make April 28 doggie social day?

Three events are taking place Saturday and all involve fun for dogs and their humans.

All serve the purpose of raising awareness for homeless pets and raising funds to help support the organizations that take them in and care for them until they can be adopted into loving homes.

Paws for Fun II is the oldest of the three.

It is put on  by the Humane Society of Caroline County and The Caroline County Agricultural Fair.

Last year’s inaugural event was up against heavy rains and high winds.

“We were very pleased with the turnout we had given the conditions,” said Jane Hardee, the coordinator of the festivities and fundraising.

The weather outlook for this Saturday is looking much better, allowing visitors and their pups to enjoy the games  designed for them and their families.

“We’ll also have pet CPR and first-aid demonstrations, a blessing of the dogs and vendors selling items for both dogs and their owners,” said Hardee.

Paws for Fun will also include raffles, an opportunity to “Ask the Vet,” and a chance to visit with dogs from several rescue groups including Virginia German Shepherds, Bonnie Blue Rescue, Collie Rescue, Bullie Paws, Virginia Greyhounds and the Fredericksburg Regional SPCA.

Hardee pointed out that although last year’s turnout was affected by the weather, they were pleasantly surprised by the generosity of people making monetary donations and of food and supplies for the animals.

The social events for dogs continues with the first annual Lake of the Woods Dog Fest.

Several dog rescue groups will be in attendance including Dogs Deserve Better, The Chance Foundation, Orange County Animal Shelter and Bully Paws.

Children will have a chance to see and pet other four-legged friends including goats from Rikki’s Refuge.

“Folks will also have the chance to ask the experts – vets, groomers and trainers,” said Carolyn McFarland, the manager of the LOW’s Equestrian Center the location hosting the  event.

In addition to taking part in games and contests, the pooches attending will also be able to get their groove on to live music by such artists as singer-songwriter Dave Goodrich.

The other newcomer to this weekend’s dog extravaganza is A Day for the Dogs, sponsored by the Fredericksburg Jaycees.

The service organization decided to branch out in its efforts to now include the canine members of our community.

If the neighbor’s cat has your dog stressed out, the Waggin’ Tail Mobile Grooming will be on hand to pamper and massage their cares away.

More than 30 vendors will be on hand while Amway representatives will be there with all natural dog treats and vitamins.

Let your hound release his inner Picasso with the mess-free dog painting.

Andrew the Maltese, who is still basking in the national exposure he had on CBS’s “Greatest American Dog,” will be on hand to sign “pawtagraphs.”

And if you think your pet has the talent to compete, the Jaycees will be putting on their own version of a talent show.

So hook on Fido’s leash, make sure he has his proper tags and head out to one, or two, or all three of these events.

A donation of pet food, treats, leashes, collars and toys for the homeless animals the events support will be very appreciated.

What: Paws for Fun II, presented by the Humane Society of Caroline and the Caroline County Agricultural Fair Association

Where: Caroline County Fairgrounds. 8332 County Fair Lane, Ruther Glen

When: Saturday, April 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: $5, children under 5 and dogs free

Info: 804/867-7534;  carolinehumancesocity.org

Note: Current vaccinations required, dogs must be at least 4 months of age, no retractable leashes

What: Lake of the Woods Dog Fest

Where: Lake of the Woods Equestrian Center

When: Saturday April 28, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: Free

Info: 540/972-2238

What: A Day for the Dogs —Fredericksburg Jaycees First Dog Day Social

Where: Fredericksburg Dog Park on Kenmore Ave.

When: Saturday, April 28,  1–5 p.m.

Cost: Free

Info: 540/ 371-6005; fredjaycees.com

Note: Only 22401 residents are permitted to use the Fredericksburg dog park outside of the dog day social event, according to Erika Gunselman of the Fredericksburg Jaycees. Owners who are outside of 22401 will be ticketed and fined along with dogs who do not have their city tags.

Craig Schulin: 540/374-5403

cschulin@freelancestar.com

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