Going to the dogs: Bark on Biddle a howling success

 

By SUE SUCHYTA

Sunday Times Newspapers

WYANDOTTE – Make no bones about it: Bark on Biddle was a tail wagging success May 30 to June 1 along the waterfront at Bishop Park.

From skill demonstrations to fun contests, furry friends had a chance to strut their stuff, while owners strolled casually with kindred spirits.

Event organizer Jenna Smith said Bark on Biddle, which started on the main thoroughfare through town, shifted to the waterfront for a better footprint and more room for vendors.

“We have the Ultimate Air Dogs that come in and do jumping competitions throughout the weekend,” she said. “The Lucky Dog lure course does things where people can bring their dogs for a first time run, and we have people who come every year for the lure course thing.”

Smith said K9 Star Productions does a canine variety show which showcase skills with a Frisbee, agility and tricks.

She said there are also fun contests throughout the weekend, including Smooch your Pooch, costume contests, ultimate fur ball and more.

“I think it is kind of like a call to arms for those who are canine enthusiasts,” Smith said. “We have some who come out who are competition dogs, so we see dogs from those levels to the Ultimate Air competition dogs and also just family pets who are down for the day to enjoy the sun and the fun and the pool.”

She said the bubble-filled foam party is onsite for two- and four-legged friends, and it is chemically safe so everyone can jump around in it and have a fun time.

“We have a really good, respectful following for this event,” Smith said. “Everyone understands the rules and etiquette, so we haven’t seen any problems whatsoever.”

She said she enjoys seeing people, especially children, enjoying the event.

“We had two women yesterday that discovered that their dogs were littermates,” Smith said. “They had a really fun and exciting encounter. Their dogs were actually sisters.”

She said she enjoys seeing the vendors and the guests enjoying the event, and everyone enjoys petting the dogs.

Smith said that while they had plenty of sunshine, they had a cool breeze, so the dogs’ paws didn’t get too hot walking on the asphalt parking lot, and no one got overheated.

“We also have our pools for when it does get a little warmer,” she said.

Smith said she loves the event and this time of year.

“This is one of my most enjoyed festivals just because who doesn’t love to pet a dog?” she said.

Smith said they have dog rescue groups on site, as well as veterinarians and vet techs in attendance, so it is exciting to see support for those groups.

“The community comes out and really enjoys this festival,” she said. “From kids to adults, you get to see everyone and have a good time.”

Rachel Trapani of Wyandotte attended with her dog, Sadie, who won a costume contest that incorporated her adaptive walking device.

Sadie, who was diagnosed in March with degenerative myelopathy, a neurological disorder, was dressed as a pilot, with her adaptive walking device decorated as an airplane.

She said Sadie also enjoyed the lure course, while she enjoys the sense of community with other dog owners.

“Everyone comes out with their dogs, and it’s fun to see all the dogs,” she said. “It’s a safe, family-friendly event that’s a fun day in the community.”