The second annual Bark in the Park will be held this Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Thomas Centennial Park in downtown Chesterton. Admission is free. The event is being sponsored by the Duneland Business Initiative Group.

Start the day early with the first ever 5k Run With the Big Dogs and 1 mile Stroll. Owners are encouraged to run or walk with their dogs for even more fun. Registration is from 6-6:45 a.m., and the race begins at 7 a.m. The race will start and end in the old Wiseway parking lot at 8th & Broadway.

For more details and a registration form visit www.DuneBig.com or call Race Director Paul Stofko at (970) 214-4203.Ê

A variety of contests will be held from Noon to 2:00 p.m. No registration is necessary, contests are free to enter.

Line up to participate in the following contests: Owner-Dog Look-alike, Best Trick, Best Dressed, Smallest, Biggest, Longest Tail, Longest Ears and Best Human Barker.

Contest prizes are provided by Chesterton Feed and Garden, Molly Bea's Ingredients, Northwest Indiana Home Builders & Realty, the Philosophy Shoppe and Applebee's.Ê

New this year are Wiener Dog Races, run by Sheila Abner, owner of K-9 Kutz Dog Grooming. Individual wiener dog races will run throughout the day with the best time announced at 3:00 p.m. There will be prizes and ribbons, and a special first place prize.

Dogs will have fun splashing and looking for the lucky duck in the Duck Hunt game, where every player wins a prize. Or, have your pet paint at PawCasso. Games and activities will have a nominal fee.Ê

At the Barks and Crafts booth kids of all ages can personalize a Tote Bag to carry pet’s snacks or design a scarf for owner or pet to wear.

Stop at the DBIG booth and take a guess at how many dog biscuits are in the large jar. The winner closest to the correct number wins the jarful of biscuits sponsored by Pets Supplies Plus.

Also, take a chance at winning an overnight stay at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Enjoy a pet-friendly day in the park with booths from local shelters and regional pet rescue organizations. Learn more about specialized pet services offered in the area and purchase locally-made pet merchandise and treats. ÊÊ Ê

People food will be offered by the Lions Club.

For more information, go to www.DuneBig.com or call Laura at (219) 617-1742.

Bark in the Park is financially supported by a grant from the Porter County Convention, Recreation & Visitors Commission (PCCRVC).

Posted 7/9/2009