Not Your Average Dog Show Adds New Events
The family-oriented event is scheduled from 11:30 to 3 in the Paterson Field House on the main campus, 1350 West St. Admission for spectators (humans and dogs) is free. Donations of any amount are encouraged and will be gladly accepted at the door. Proceeds will benefit BCC students through the college’s annual fund.
Dogs must be registered to participate and may be entered in two categories each. Advance registration is strongly recommended. Registration is $15 through Wednesday, Feb. 8; regular fee is $20 per dog. Registering a second dog in the same family costs $10.
Sample categories include best trick, best smile, best dressed, best hair, best dancer and "Mystery Mutt," in which volunteer judges try to guess the breeds of the dogs. Category sponsors include Allen Heights Veterinary Hospital, Animal ER of the Berkshires, Berkshire Humane Society, The Clip Shop, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Dr. Ed Helitzer and Hilltown Veterinary Clinic.
This year, the Berkshire Humane Society is collaborating with the BCC Foundation for two new events — The Dog-Gone Good Chili Cookoff and a Kids Agility Competition. The chili cookoff will begin at 11:30 a.m. and registration is free for all those wishing to compete. There will be categories for both professional and amateur chili chefs, as they vie for a chance to win a top prize and a feature article in Humane Tails, the BHS newsletter. Entry forms must be submitted by Feb. 9 and are available at www.berkshirehumane.org. All types of chili may be entered in the contest, including vegetarian. Tickets are $5 for those who want to sample and cast their vote for the Best Dog Gone Chili. Information: Kathy Kazura at Pretty Paws, 413-443-0191 or Diane at BHS, 413-447-7878, Ext 31.
The Kids Agility Competition will kickoff at 1 p.m. and is a timed obstacle course for children to race through fpr the fastest time. Groups are divided in age categories for children ages 4-6 and 7-8 and prizes will be awarded for the top finishers. Advance registration is suggested; forms are available at the Humane Society shelter at 214 Barker Road. The fee is $2 per child, with all proceeds to go to BHS' spay/neuter fund.
Vendors will have pet-related items for sale and non-profit agencies will provide information pertaining to pet services. Refreshments will also be offered for sale by the BCC licensed practical nursing program.
Erica Kay, of WBEC Live 95.9 FM’s "Morning Show," will emcee, and Eugene Dellea, president of the BCC Foundation, will be the ringmaster.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times. All dogs must have up-to-date rabies shot. Females in season should not participate. Handlers of spectator dogs must agree to event rules. The snow date for the event is Feb. 19.
For registration forms, event rules and regulations, visit www.berkshirecc.edu or call Ann at 413-236-2185.
Tags: cookoff, dogs, pets,