Gina and John Jackson of Munster take their dog Harley for a stroll every Saturday morning at Community Park. One recent weekend found them among dozens of like-minded residents enjoying an annual park event.
It was the two-day, 34th Munster Summer Arts & Crafts Fair, with something additional. That would be the Pooch-a-palooza Dog Fair, featured on the event’s second day.
The Dog Fair came about seven years ago, according to Munster Parks recreation supervisor Danielle Volk.
“This began because we all love our four-legged friends. We have 300 furry guests attend the fair each summer,” she said. “Dogs are an important part of the family and the fair provides an outing for all. Also, it’s a great time seeing other dogs, chatting with neighbors and the kids really get into showing off their dogs’ talents.”
Many fun contests were on the day’s agenda.
The morning session found seven dogs vying for the titles of best trained, best dressed and best trick.
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In the end, one contestant, Kailey from Munster, won all three categories.
The afternoon session found competition for the smallest dog, largest dog and the dog that most looks like its owner.
Maggie the Chihuahua was the smallest dog, at 3.2 pounds.
In the large category, Foxy took home first place honors, at more than 150 pounds.
And Hobart youngster Nieya Abel, 11, and her dog Iceis placed in top position for the look-alike competition.
Beyond the competitions, Munster police officer Brian Hernandez offered a K-9 demonstration with his dog Django.
Twelve vendors selling dog clothes, toys and other items rounded out the event.
Patti Orenchick of Munster especially likes to visit those offering dog treats. She doesn’t care for the usual ones found at the grocery store.
“It seems these vendors usually have more healthy ingredients in their snacks,” she said. Orenchick found just what she was looking for — organic bites and veggie bites.
The Franklin family of Hammond arrived too late in the day to register their Alaskan husky, Anka, for any of the contests.
“I’m sure he would have walked away as the biggest dog,” Kyle Franklin said with a laugh. “He weighs more than I do, and I’m six-foot-two.”
Dozens of families found the Dog Fair a pleasant way to enjoy a sunny outing.
“Our pets enjoy the outdoors, just like we do,” Munster resident Kelli Hamilton said as she watched the K-9 demo with her dogs Queenie and King, “We always come to anything animal-oriented. It’s like they welcome our whole family.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.