Harwich Celebrates Dogs With Barks In The Park Saturday

HARWICH – It will be a dog day out on Saturday, Sept. 20 in Brooks Park as the town celebrates “Barks in the Park.”

It will be a day for dogs to shine, with talent shows, a fashion “Paw-rade,” and a dog and owner look alike photo contest. The first 100 dogs to arrive at the event will get a free gift bag filled with treats.

The free fun-filled event is designed for pet lovers and families, featuring a wide variety of attractions 

“We love dogs on Cape Cod and the event will feature all the things you can do with dogs on Cape Cod,” said Reagan Wilda, program specialist at the community center.

The community center, Animal Control Officer Jennifer Harrington, the health department and the chamber of commerce have come together for the event, which will be held this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include the fashion “Paw-rade,” which will highlight the best dressed and most unique canines, and a talent show. Costumes are encouraged. Wilda said there will be “Pup-casso” painting. Using a non-toxic paint, dogs can create their own art, and there will be a couple of portrait artists available. There will be kiddie pools for dogs, even live music by Super Soulshine.

There will be approximately 36 vendors and animal organizations available selling treats and dog food. There will also be food trucks for humans. The town’s health department will explain the rules for dogs accessing restaurants and the Animal Rescue League will provide information on how to adopt a dog, she said. The Sampson Fund, which raises funds to assist with veterinary care, will be on hand and accepting donations. 

Wilda said the town’s department of public works will locate a poop area for the dogs and there will be a plethora of waste bags available, but she would encourage people to bring their own. 

“Dogs must be vaccinated and leashed. No retractable leashes,” said Wilda.

Anyone planning to enter their dog in the “Paw-rade,” the talent show and several other events can sign up ahead of time, Wilda said. More information can be obtained at 508-430-7568; to sign up, call 508-736-3202.