KAGAWONG—This place and event was certainly for the dogs, literally.
The annual Bark in the Park celebrations were held at the Billings Dog Park this past Saturday, with well over 20 dogs and their owners taking part in various games and events.
Kelly Parker, a member of the Billings Recreation Committee, which hosted the day’s events, welcomed everyone. “We would like to thank you for coming out to our annual Bark in the Park day celebrations. This year we are recognizing rescue dogs, and providing the opportunity to recognize these amazing pets.”
Ms. Parker explained that, “we are starting off the day with a rescue dog welcome parade (with dogs wearing yellow ribbons) to show off all the wonderful rescue dogs here today. And thank you to all the owners of these rescue dogs; you have done a great thing in owning a rescue dog.”
The day included the welcome parade, an all play time for the dogs, wiener bite games in which sliced wieners were dropped into containers of water with the first dog to eat all the treats declared the winner, a tennis ball relay-with dog and human participation, and obedience hoops. There were prizes given to the winning dogs in each event.
The recreation committee members provided dog owners the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch. Meanwhile several business vendors were on hand.
Signs were posted beside the schedule of events on a backstop screen at the dog park, encouraging potential dog owners to adopt pets, not buy them. “Adopt, don’t buy. Rescue dogs may need extra time to bond with you. Ensure you give extra quiet time together; Make sure you train or get assistance with your new dog; patience is the key! Rescues have often been in cages with strange sights and sounds. Give them time to acclimate. Focus on rewarding good behaviour, not just focusing on bad.”
It was noted that there are several good reasons to adopt a dog. You save a life, most animals through no fault of their own, need a second chance. Older pets can be more laid back, already trained and less energetic than a younger animal; and adopting supports spaying and neutering in helping the overpopulation crisis.”
And rescue dogs, “have the same amount of love if not more.”
