Mid-spring splash

Auburn’s Game Farm Park makes way for fun and games, food and services for people and their four-legged pals

May 18, 2019 8:50 pm
Bogart jumps far and plunges into a pool during the North America Diving Dogs (NADD) competition at Petpalooza on Saturday at Game Farm Park. Dock diving is one of the fastest growing sports for dogs. NADD is an organization working to enhance the sport with dock diving facilities and competitors throughout North America. RACHEL CIAMPI, Auburn Reporter

The day belonged to furry faces, wet noses and wagging tails.

Auburn’s Petpalooza – a festival for pets of all sizes and shapes – returned to Game Farm Park on a sun-kissed Saturday.

The 12th annual event offered live entertainment, animal-related fun, pet contests, flying and diving dogs, food and more than 160 vendors.

There also were reptiles, The Parrot Lady, the All-Alaskan Racing Pigs and new to the lineup, the North America Diving Dogs.

The day began with the Dog Trot, a fun run for pets and their owners. The “chip-timed” race started and finished in the park. Participants followed a 3K or 5K route over a flat, easy course, enjoyable for all ages and ability levels.

Walkers, talkers, joggers and runners participate in the Dog Trot on Saturday morning. RACHEL CIAMPI, Auburn Reporter

Walkers, talkers, joggers and runners participate in the Dog Trot on Saturday morning. RACHEL CIAMPI, Auburn Reporter