Lisa gives bonded pair Lily (left) and Buddy (right) a safe haven in the midst of the crowds at the Pet Event at Lake Anne. Lisa volunteers with New Love Animal Rescue and was eager to show off the loving nature of these two 7 year old-ish adoption candidates. “They would make someone the best, lay-in-your-lap dogs. Real, true companions,” she said. Photo by Andrea Worker.
PetMAC Marketplace and Adoption Center in Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, hosted another Pet Event on Saturday, Sept. 12. World Champion dogs from the Chesapeake DockDogs Club provided the thrilling entertainment for the pet expo and adoption fair.
Vendors and pet service providers like The Hope Center, Dog Gone Fitness, and locally-made Golden Nugget Dog Treats were careful to set up their exhibits a fair distance from lakeside to escape the splashing and watery shake-off of an impressive collection of canine aquatic athletes. The spectators, on the other hand, seemed quite content to “participate” by sitting or standing close enough to the action to ensure at least a sprinkling. Some of the younger audience members went for the complete-soak experience.
The Chesapeake DockDogs are a regional affiliate of the DockDogs Club that sponsors judged canine aquatic competitions around the world. This chapter performed at Lake Anne last May and according to PetMAC owner Cindy Williams – and attested to by the size of the crowd watching the action – they were back by popular demand. At this weekend’s non-competitive outing, someone must have forgotten to tell the “swimmers” that there weren’t any prizes or trophies on offer for today’s efforts. Each four-legged contender made a splash both physical and figuratively. Some showcased their vertical leap prowess, while others pushed the limits on just how far out from the dock they could reach before those four feet finally hit the water. All of them performed to enthusiastic applause.
There was another, non-performing but equally important group of canines on hand, winding their way through the crowds - and with any luck, through their hearts - as well. These were the “guests” of Herndon-based New Love Animal Rescue group, being led by an army of volunteers and foster parents, wearing bright red bandanas to signify their availability for adoption. PetMAC works with several area animal welfare groups to spotlight these animals seeking their “forever homes” and conducts numerous events like this one to help bring potential families and new pet members together.
If you missed this family fun event then you missed a doggone treat! But you do have another chance to see the DockDogs in action, and maybe find your next furry BFF at the next PetMAC sponsored Pet Event on Saturday, Oct. 17. Keep up to date with PetMAC happenings at www.petmac.org or stop by the store in Lake Anne Plaza to visit and check out the treats and eats for your canine or feline companions.