A Dog Day …

Yesterday we participated in Paws on the Promenade in east Loveland at The Promenade Shops at Centerra.  Lying awake at 4:30 a.m. to the sound of rain and thunder — and Frankers squawking in his crate because of the thunder — we wondered if a rain-out was in store.  Given a 60% chance of rain in the forecast with winds, it was entirely possible.  Definitely a day to dress for the weather with more winter-like apparel as morning temps were in the low 40s!  Jeans, check … boots, check … colorful scarf, check … coat, check … rain coat, check … coat for Dante, check … fleecy blanket for Dante, check … mug of hot coffee, check.  Nothing like springtime in Colorado with a 40-degree swing in temps from one day to the next!

While the morning was a bit slow — most certainly due to the inclement weather — things picked up in the afternoon with less wind/rain and more sun/visitors to our rescue booth.  The event included several events including a K-9 police dog demonstration,a dog trick contest and a costume contest.  Given that we don’t have anything in rescue at the moment, Dante made his appearance as an ambassador for the breed and my friend, Ginny, brought Ethan up as an additional ambassador in coat.  Apsos in full coat are always a draw (especially with the little girls) as one rarely gets to see a dog in coat outside the show ring.  Debby came in from Conifer to help man the booth so we had a full crew.  An added treat yesterday was Senghe (n/k/a Peanut) stopping by for a visit with Renee … always love to see our former foster dogs.  What was not fun … all our signage had to be stashed away because it kept blowing down in the brisk winds.  Note to self:  get banners that can be securely hung from the shade canopy.

The pet expos are a great way to connect with the community and educate others about our breed.  From time to time, we’re fortunate that the local paper includes us in their coverage of the event.  Always a fun day, we get to meet other “dog folk” and visit the various vendors in attendance.  Through the years, one gets to know the other dog-related businesses in the area and conversations are continued from previous expos.  Here’s to next year’s event … and hopefully warmer weather!