Huntley Dog-tober Fest brings pets and owners together

Dogs and their owners having fun together is what Dog-tober Fest is all about.

Man's best friend can participate in contests, learn tricks and socialize at the third annual event, set for noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at Deicke Park, 12015 Mill St., Huntley.

“The fest is to focus on the important relationship between families and their pets while bringing attention to the needs of animals in our local area,” said Kim Ashbaugh, co-chairwoman of Dog-tober Fest.

This year the event will feature a performance by Windy City K-9 Disc Dogs, an award-winning flying disc catching team.

“We want to show people other activities you can do with your dogs to keep them healthy and active,” said Tom Wherli, cofounder of Windy City K-9 Disc Dogs.

More than 50 vendors are expected to participate in this year's free event. Grooming salons, pet food suppliers and pet photographers are just some of the many dog related service providers that are to be seen.

Shelters and rescue organizations will be present to help dogs in need find their new forever homes. There will also be two pet blessings done by the Rev. Michelle McNamara from St. John's United Church of Christ in Marengo.

“We do two pet blessings because after the first one, attendees usually ask for another,” Ashbaugh said. “Even though the fest is for dogs, I've seen guinea pigs at the blessings, too.

Competitive pet owners and their four-legged friends, young and old, can participate in contests including one temptation to see how many biscuits can be dropped without being eaten.

Participants are also invited to watch and try agility demonstrations and tricks with their dogs.

“All dogs that know the basic tricks are able to come and learn new phenomenal basic dog obedience,” Ashbaugh said.

At the end of the event, prizes donated by area businesses will be raffled off, with the proceeds going to a random picked rescue, shelter or other humane organization.

“It's our way of giving back and supporting those who can't speak for themselves,” Ashbaugh said.

For details about Dog-tober Fest, visit huntleydogtoberfest.com.