Fun was the name of the game last weekend

   HOLLYWOOD – As the heat index reached 100 last weekend, being outside may not have been the most comfortable place to be, but for dog owners, it may have been one of the most beneficial spots to be.

   The special two day event hosted by the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood and Downtown Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency at the beautiful ArtsPark, attracted canines and their families from all over the region to take part in the free Dogs of Summer event that was quite rewarding and fun.

Canines and their families flocked to downtown Hollywood Saturday for events such as a Canine safety course for children, “Doggie Be Good” obedience demonstration by The Humane Society of Broward County, seminar on pet nutrition as well as helping dog owners learn how to keep their canine companions calm during thunderstorms and hurricanes, which was led by renowned animal behavioral specialist Dr. Terry Curtis of the University of Florida.

   "This is a such a great event for all dog owners," said Celeste Miller of Hollywood, who was on hand for the activities with her five-year-old cocker spaniel, D.J. "So many times, people are looking for ways to prohibit dogs from coming to a park or other places. It was refreshing that someone finally dedicated a weekend to these gorgeous four-legged humans."

   Saturday's highlight was a meet and greet with world famous canine artist Tillamook Cheddar a.k.a. “Tillie.” as well as a performance by the South Florida Air K9s, who showed off some of their high-flying antics.  

   Father's day also brought out many families who had the chance to spend the time with their pets, who are often left at home during holiday events. Even though the heat and humidity tested many canines and their families, a number of programs certainly made the day worth the experience.

  From the Blessing of the Animals by Father Julio Solano of the Church of the Little Flower in Hollywood, to a canine safety course for children and a demonstration by Kuniko Yamamoto, who taught the youngsters origami in the children’s interactive art tent, there was plenty to keep everyone busy.

  "Children always need to know how to care for their pets," said Rachel Ragland of Hallandale Beach. "Remember, it's often the youngsters who want the pets, but after they get tired of them, they lose interest. That's how you have pets who no longer have homes."

   Ragland is right on target with so many animals – cats and dogs – without homes. Over the past few weeks, different agencies have attempted to promote the many animals looking for homes. As someone who has been as active as anyone, the South Florida Sun-Times continues to run photos and expose the different agencies who are trying to find homes.

   Sunday also saw the Broward Chapter of the Dog Scouts of America and their canine companions introduce themselves to the public as well as a K-9 demonstration with the Hollywood Police Department. The Humane Society of Broward County remains in the spotlight for the great things they do to teach and obedience to new pet owners, They hosted a  “Doggie Be Good” obedience demonstration.

   World famous canine artist “Tillie” also demonstrated live her unique art-making technique.

   Both days featured live music; a chance to get a photo portrait of your pooch; sidewalk chalk art; kids’ bounce house; wading pools and sprinklers; various pet-related vendors; raffle prizes; and exclusively for the dogs -- a “doggie bar.” Additionally, a number of downtown Hollywood businesses offered pet-friendly dining and shopping as well as specials.    

    As usual, I have to give so much credit to the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood and Director Joy Satterlee for another job well done. 

   To find out any information about this impressive organization and what they have coming up, call: (954) 921-3274 Or visit: www.ArtandCultureCenter.org.