Hot Diggity Dog Day returns Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the St. Augustine Humane Society. There will be free educational activities, including obedience training and a K9 unit demo, food trucks and free hot dogs.
“Hot Diggity Dog Day is an event we look forward to all year long,” said Carolyn Smith, St. Augustine Humane Society’s executive director. “It is a wonderful opportunity to bring people and pups together and provide valuable education at the same time. Admission is free for dog trainings, demonstrations, giveaways of our Pin Up Paws calendars and other goodies at the Pet Supermarket Tent, and, for the first time at Hot Diggity Dog Day, the chance to meet adoptable dogs.”
Educational sessions will be offered throughout the day, including pet CPR training from Ariella’s Pet Wellness Academy. Joey Romer, founder of Smart Paws Obedience Training, will also be on-site all day to meet with dog owners looking for help with specific training challenges.
“I believe in helping you create a strong bond with your dog, because they’re only as good as you train them,” said Romer. Retired after 43 years in law enforcement, 18 years working with K9s, Romer is an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator who specializes in behavioral issues, obedience, protection, tracking and odor detection.
Deputy Melanie Merritt with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office will offer a special meet-and-greet with her trusty K9 Partner, Daisy Mae.
Other event highlights include free microchip vouchers to the first 50 attendees, complimentary hot dogs provided by the VFW Veterans Food Wagon, facepainting with Skittles the Clown, an appearance from the Newfoundland Dog Club and food trucks.
St. Augustine Humane Society is located at 1665 Old Moultrie Road, St. Augustine.
All proceeds from Hot Diggity Dog Day will directly support the Humane Society’s programs and initiatives aimed at helping pets live healthy, happy lives in loving homes.
