Saint Francis Service Dogs anticipates approximately 2,000 visitors and 1,000 dogs to enjoy a beautiful fall day at the Saint Francis campus for the 8th annual DogtoberFest celebration on Saturday, October 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
“This event has grown over the years and we enjoy hosting people from throughout Virginia and their dogs. It’s also an opportunity for us to remind people of all the great work our staff and volunteers help to raise and train service dogs to help children and adults with disabilities,” said Saint Francis Service Dogs Executive Director Cabell Youell.
There will be fun for all from Bobbin Doggin’ in which dogs bob for tennis balls to PawCasso brought to you by Jordan’s Framing where dogs use their paws to paint, to the Doggie Day Spa and arts and crafts for children and their dogs.
DogtoberFest also offers the Canine Cake Walk, service dog demonstrations, grooming and the popular Berglund Automotive’s Parade of Dogs.
The dogs and their owners can also try the agility course and “Flyball” all day. The kid’s play area will offer fun for children of all ages and includes face painting, an obstacle course, a slide, a moon bounce, games and prizes. A caricaturist will draw both people and dogs.
Vendors will offer a wide range of items. Kroger and Valleydale’s “Doggone Good Diner” will offer a variety of delicious food. “We want everyone to come out with their dogs, and enjoy DogtoberFest,” said Youell who offered the reminder that owners’ dogs must be on leash and have proof of a rabies vaccine before their dog can be admitted to the festival.