‘Top Dog’ photos sought for Dogapalooza
COOKEVILLE – Proud of your four-legged friend? Here’s a chance to brag.
Cookeville Leisure Services’ ninth annual Dogapalooza, scheduled for April 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Dogwood Park, will once again include a “Top Dog” photo display as an added feature to the free event that caters to dogs and the people who love them.
“This is a chance to brag on your fur baby,” Cathy Benich, event organizer, said. “Last year, quite a few people stopped to look at the photos and enjoyed reading about what makes each dog special.”
Danielle Heady-Riddle has already submitted a photo of her dog, Ava Grace.
“She was my mom’s top dog, but my mom passed away,” she said. “Ava was her best friend. She’s now my top dog, and every time I look at her I just smile because I’m reminded of how much my mom loved her and us.”
Participants have until April 25 to send their photos, along with their name, their dog’s name and breed, and two to three sentences about why their dog is “Top Dog” to them. Photos may be emailed to ls@cookeville-tn.org or mailed or dropped off at the Cookeville Leisure Services office in Cookeville City Hall, 45 E. Broad St.
Event organizers hope the photo display will be a good representation of all the dogs that add to the quality of life in the Cookeville area.
Dogapalooza is an event that features pet-related vendors, an off-leash play area, an adoptable pet parade and a kids’ dog show.
“It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a spring afternoon in beautiful Dogwood Park with your dog and visit local vendors,” Benich said of the event, which is sponsored by Eagle Credit and First National Bank of Tennessee.
So far, vendors include the Cookeville-Putnam County Animal Shelter, Friends of Cookeville/Putnam County Animals, Putnam County Library, Keep Putnam County Beautiful Clean Commission, Pal World, American Self Serve Dog Wash, All About Rescue and Fixin’ (A.A.R.F.), Humane Society of Putnam County, Thunderhawk Canine, VCA Ragland and Riley Hospital, Cookeville Area Rose Society, P.E.T.S. LLC, and Safe Haven Puppy Sanctuary.
“We are hopeful more vendors will be added to that list in the next week,” Benich said.
Children wishing to compete in the dog show, which is for ages 16 and under, must register on the day of Dogapalooza by 2:15 p.m. The contest begins at 2:30 p.m. First, second and third place winners will be selected in each of the following categories: Most Obedient, Best Trick, Loudest Bark, Prettiest Dog, and Dog/Owner Look-Alike. First place winners will go on to compete for best of show.
“It’s a great way to spend time with your pet and give them some TLC,” Cara Sheets, dog show organizer, said. “It also creates memories for families and lets them focus on their amazing furry friend.”
For more information about Dogapalooza, call Cookeville Leisure Services at 931-520-4386 or visit www.cookeville-tn.gov/ls.
PHOTO CUTLINE: Morgan and Megan Higbie enjoy last year’s Dogapalooza with “Joey.” The ninth annual event will be held April 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Dogwood Park.