Whistler is going to the dogs... just in case it hadn't already.
The Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival is playing host to the 13 th annual Dogfest, a day of canine-related events and activities to be held on April 24. WAG, Whistler's animal shelter, is putting on the event.
"Every year, Dogfest has brought together people and dogs from the Sea to Sky corridor," Paula Del Bosco, WAG's executive director, said in a news release. "It's a great time to watch some great canine demonstrations, see some of our former charges thriving in their new homes, as well as showcase all that WAG does in the community."
The day will include Agility and Tricks by the K9 Incredibles, K9 Explosives Detection and Protection by Absolute K-9, as well as Paws2Dance Musical Freestyle. There will also be contests such as Best Dressed Dog and Owner and Best Amateur Trick by kids and their dogs.
There's also the much-anticipated Dog Parade-a-thon, a stroll through Whistler Village showing dogs in all kinds of silly costumes.
Beyond those events there's Ask the Expert, where for a small donation dog owners can consult a professional trainer. There's also a silent auction, canine DNA testing and a seminar by Amber Cottle, a dog behaviourist from Vancouver.
Funds raised by Dogfest will go to help WAG maintain its facility and provide care for animals in need of services such as veterinary care, spaying and neutering.
The funds will also support WAG's Aries' Fund, which provides surgery, emergency and critical care for special cases, as well as the Financial Assistance for Neuter and Spay (FANS) program for low-income residents of the Sea to Sky region.
It goes down Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a seminar lasting from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dogfest happens at Whistler Town Plaza while the seminar takes place at MY Millennium Place. The event is free but registration for the dog parade is $5.
