Jumping dogs compete in Libertyville

The eighth annual Libertyville's Dog Days of Summer means four days of fun for both humans and dogs.

Taking place Thursday, July 7, through Sunday, July 10, at Cook Park, 300 N. Milwaukee Ave., the event will feature the DockDogs National Dog Jumping Competition, where 100 nationally ranked jumping dogs will run down a 40-foot dock and jump into a 27,000-gallon pool of water to compete for longest distance.

Events start Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. with the Local Dog Fun Jump. For $15, local dogs can test their own jumping skills and compete for a spot in the opening ceremonies local dog jump competition.

On Friday, the event is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will start with the DockDog Regional Competition. Wayne Messmer will sing the national anthem at the opening ceremony. Mayor Terry Weppler will throw out the first ball to start the "Local Jumping Competition," where 15 local dogs will compete for the title of "Libertyville's Big Air Dog."

Saturday, the event will again be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to the dog jumping competition, doggie-oriented events and more than 30 vendors will be in Cook Park throughout the weekend. At noon, there will be a Lake County Sheriff K-9 demo.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, the DockDogs Finals will take place. A 3K Fun Walk will be from 9 to 10 a.m. and a multi-faith pet blessing is set for 11 a.m. to noon.

Trophies will be presented by Messmer to all participants.

For details, call (847) 612-1231.