Dundee Township Dog Days of Summer

A couple of cool, crisp fall nights are bringing the Warblers and other migratory birds our way here in Illinois. However, last week's temperatures were so exceptionally warm that many of us birders planned other activities, expecting little in the way of bird activity this past weekend.

My choice was to spend Saturday at Dundee Township's First Annual Dog Days of Summer, an event featuring games, goodies and a grand time for dogs and their owners.


Now what am I, a CAT person, doing at a DOG event? Well, PHOTOGRAPHING, of course....

...and just enjoying the energy of dog people and their furry friends.

It could not have been a more beautiful day in the idyllic setting of Randall Oaks Park and Farm, with the sun shining and a gentle breeze blowing.

Many dogs were sporting neckerchiefs provided by Dundee Animal Hospital and

Algonquin's ALL PAWS Veterinary Clinic.

ALL PAWS provided complimentary blood testing, while Dundee Animal Hospital , along with "Home Again", a pet recovery service, sponsored free Microchipping.

"I had my blood tested..see my pink bandage?!"

There were dozens of dogs... all shapes, sizes, colors and stages of life. Lots of nose kissing and (other) investigation went on as each new dog entered the park! All of the dogs were very well behaved and having a great time!


Representatives from several Rescue groups were on hand to answer questions and pique interest in adoption. REGAP is a national organization for the adoption of Retired Greyhounds, with an active Illinois chapter.

'Winston' a lucky Greyhound with a great home!

Certified Canine Massage Therapist Carole Lago (carole_lago@att.net) was busy throughout the day, demonstrating her therapeutic techniques, much to the delight of both canines and their companions.

...ahhhhhhhhhhhh!

Whether giving Dog Behavior Tips, demonstrating Pet Tricks, or leading a game of "Musical Sit", Robin from The Pet Squad, ( http://www.thepetsquad.com/ ) never had a chance to sit down!

Robin and "Otto" get ready to do a trick.

Otto gives Robin a "high-five"

A serious student practices the hand-shake.

"I'm too short to do a high-five!"


A large group gathered to hear Carpentersville police discuss and demo Police Dog work.

No dog left the party empty-pawwed, as vendors from bakeries such as Felix and Fifi's of Carpentersville, Pet Food stores such as Petpals of Dundee, Groomers including Kathy's Pet Salon in Gilberts (847-428-1701), and Pet Sitting services including Pampered Pets of Dundee, all had treats galore to give away!

"I can't wait till next year's Dog Days!"