Dogs are our brothers, our sisters, our companions and our best friends

It's never been proven scientifically, but one study suggests dogs are actually human beings with fur coats and floppy ears.

OK, so it was a small study. But my two poodles act as if they have their own branch on the family tree. They insist on being included in all the holiday photos. They sleep in the master bedroom. They rule the couch. They even have their own lounge.

Ask any dog owner, and the response will be unanimous - dogs are akin to people. They are every bit our brothers, our sisters, our companions and our best friends.

They love to party, too. That's why they'll be barking, running and jumping for joy from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, when the Fox Valley Park District hosts its sixth annual "Paws in the Park" celebration at Lincoln Park.

For those unfamiliar with Lincoln Park, it's a dog-meet-dog world over there. Located at the end of South Russell Avenue on Aurora's near west side, the park is a domain for dogs, highlighted by a three-acre, fenced-in area - reserved exclusively for canines - giving our four-legged friends room to run.

The dogs at Lincoln Park have it good. They enjoy being appreciated, and it shows, for they always return the favor.

Lincoln Park will be full of pet-related vendors who will have products and gifts on hand while offering an array of services. Other helpful activities will include demonstrations from behavior and obedience specialists, police dog demonstrations, dog contests and animal blessings by local pastor Jerry Rhye.

Better yet, the event is free to all - not only for dogs and dog owners - but for everybody who would like to attend, no matter how many legs.

"It's going to be a fun afternoon for all involved," said event organizer Jennifer Huber of the Park District. "We've averaged 100-150 dogs in the past, and twice as many people. We do it for the good of the animals, but everybody likes to see all the different breeds of dogs that come out, too."

The event is held in conjunction with the Fox Valley Animal Welfare League, an organization committed to caring for pets.

Due to the economy, this year has been especially tough for animal shelters such as FVAWL. Like their owners, many pets are struggling - but their hardships often leave them homeless. Many shelters today are bursting at the seams with animals who would like nothing better than to find a place to call home with a caring family.

"There is no shortage of animals available for adoption," said Huber, "so we'll have plenty of opportunities at Paws in the Park for people to look into adopting pets if they're interested."

Adopt a dog soon enough and they'll be eligible for the many contests that will be held around 3 p.m., including longest tail, shortest tail and identifying which owner and dog look most alike.

Park district representatives also will be on hand selling dog tags for Lincoln Park. A $15 tag (resident rate) is your pooch's season ticket to run off-leash all year in the fenced-in play area.

Luigi's will provide people food which, of course, also ranks high on a dog's list - pizza, hot dogs, etc.

Don't be surprised if you're asked to share. Ruff!

Jeff Long is the public relations manager for the Fox Valley Park District. Contact him at jlong@fvpd.net