Dover to hold Pet Extravaganza

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Chad Padgett
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Dover Air Force Base will host a Pet Extravaganza June 13 at The Landings Club starting at 10:30 a.m.

The event will include a burger burn, raffle prizes, contests and a 'Doggie Dash.'

"We're going to have four categories for the contest; most loveable, best costume, best trick, and pet and owner look a likes," said Frank Russo, 436th Force Support Squadron Force Services Community Center director. "We're going to have treats and water available for the pets."

While the contests require a pet, there will be activities for those without pets.

" The [Kent Count American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals] and Safe Haven will have animals available for adoption," said Staff Sgt. Nichole Naprstek, 436th Maintenance Operations Squadron Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st century facilitator. "They have a lot of animals for adoption so hopefully this will help alleviate some of the problem. They can come out and talk with the ASPCA about any kind of questions they might have about adopting a pet."

The Dover Veterinary Clinic, the ASPCA and Safe Haven will also be on hand to pass out information on caring for pets. According to their Web site, The Safe Haven Humane Society is a non-profit, privately funded, limited admission shelter, which does not use euthanasia for population control.

Once the Pet Extravaganza ends, the Doggie Dash will begin. The Doggie Dash is a one mile run/walk from the Landings Club to the Education Office and back. The entry fee for the dash is a pet related item, which will be donated to the Kent County ASPCA.

"The Doggie Dash is to promote physical fitness while helping support the local community," said Tech. Sgt. Richard Ortega, 436th Civil Engineer Squadron dorm manager. "We're giving away free 'doggie bags' with every registered participant. They'll have a little dog treat and toy in it."

The race will have prizes for first, second and third place in two categories; dogs over 30 pounds and under 30 pounds.

"The Doggie Dash, above all else, is about having fun. Participants don't have to run to be part of the event," said Sergeant Ortega. "We want people to come out and enjoy the day."

Dogs at the Pet Extravaganza will be required to be on a leash and must be cleaned up after.