Canine Capers lets the dogs out

By ANNETTE JOYCE

The dogs are back in town again –the town of Oak Ridge, that is. That’s right, it’s time for Canine Capers, a fun-filled celebration of our furry fourlegged friends that takes place on Saturday, April 29, starting at 9 a.m. at Oak Ridge Town Park.

Now in its ninth year, Canine Capers gives dog lovers a chance to show off their furry friends while having a doggone good time. A dog show, contests, demonstrations, dog maze and dog-related vendors, along with some exciting new events, are all on the day’s agenda.

Don’t have a dog? Come on out anyway – you might nd a new friend at one of the rescue booths.

Patterned after regulation confirmation shows, the dog show is an all-breed fun match open to both purebreds and mixed breeds. Oak Ridge resident Sharon Smith, who has spent years in the confirmation ring, heads up the show and gives novice participants a taste of what a real show is like, while passing along pointers to participants who are already showing their dogs.

The show includes a number of just-for-fun contests such as “best ball retriever,” “best tail wagger,” “best kisser” and, new this year, a “Pup Cup” ice cream eating contest.

Be sure to

This is also where the rescue groups will be set up with their available pups.

Don’t forget to purchase your Canine Capers raffle tickets for a chance to win a variety of prizes including a doggie goodie basket, dog training gift certificate, outdoor items and more. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and are available at Oak Ridge Town Hall beforehand or onsite during the day of the event.

Profits from Canine Capers go to participating dog rescues.

“Since the beginning, we’ve had numerous rescue groups that have taken the time to support the event. Many have been able to find homes for the dogs they represent,” said Terry Lannon, Oak Ridge’s director of Parks and Recreation. “We believe it’s a good idea to give back to these organizations that have helped make Canine Capers so successful.”

want to go?

Canine Capers

Saturday, April 29, starting at 9 a.m.

Oak Ridge Town Park, 6231 Lisa Drive Free admission

$5 registration per event, per dog for show and contests

Also new is “Paws on the Runway,” a doggie fashion competition to showcase the area’s canine fashionistas and their humans.

And check out the Oak Ridge Town Park Facebook page for details about a new online event to choose the cutest dog. Enter your own dog or vote for another precious pup.

Dogs and their owners will have a chance to test for the Canine Good Citizen certification and try their luck at the Dog Daze Maze hosted by Oak Ridge Lions Club.

Bark Avenue offers attendees the opportunity to interact with event sponsors and find an array of services and supplies geared toward dog lovers.

Deepa Nayak, MD • Steve Kearns, MD

Laurie MacDonald, MD • Lauren Miller Jones, FNP

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