IMAGE GALLERY: Dog Day of Spring Has Tails Wagging

On Saturday, April 30, it was a day for dogs at the Westborough Spring Festival. Dogs on leashes filled Bay State Green: big dogs, little dogs, furry dogs, spotted dogs, and dogs of just about every size and shape. There were dogs in strollers and dogs pulling wagons. While proud owners welcomed the attention brought on by their pets, the happy canines relished the frequent petting from the dog-loving townsfolk. It certainly was a dog day of spring complete with a Dog Dash Fun Run, a Dog Spa and an Amateur Dog Show.

At 10 a.m., dogs and their owners took to the track in the Dog Dash Fun Run. While onlookers cheered them on, pooches and their owners raced around Bay State Green. By the time they reached the finish line, both were panting. One tired owner shared that “my dog took me for a run, not the other way around!”

Following the fun run, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the dogs were invited to visit the Tufts Veterinary School Dog Spa. From nail clipping to brushing to bathing (complete with towel drying) the dogs enjoyed being pampered. Kiddie pools became dog pools while owners watched on, enjoying the break from these not always fun duties.

The highlight of the day came at 2 p.m. for the Amateur Dog Show. Here, the dogs shined! With a crowd of onlookers cheering them on, the canines competed in the following categories: Best Kisser, Best Tail Wagger, Best Dressed, Best Jumper, Best Barker, Biggest Dog, Smallest Dog and Dog that looks most like its owner. The children, especially, were an enthusiastic audience. One of the favorite categories of the competition was the “Best Dressed” category. Here, there was a dog dressed in a Hawaiian shirt, one little dog dressed as a witch and dogs in various sweaters.

Throughout the day veterinary students were on hand to answer questions regarding dog care and health issues. These “pet whisperers” were happy to share their knowledge with the dog owners and, hopefully, put any concerns to rest.  

Overall, the dogs got some exercise, some pampering and a chance to show off. It was a doggone good time!