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BYOD to Largo

By TERRI BRYCE REEVES
Published March 2, 2007

	Nimble dogs like Sergeant from the Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club in Largo will demonstrate agility at Pawfest.
[Times photos: Joseph Garnett Jr.]

ADVERTISEMENT Sharon Nichols directs her Australian shepherd, Marni, through the course. Scout, an Australian shepherd weaves through the obstacles. Kelly Rossi gives her dog, Sergeant, a treat.

LARGO - The time has come for all good dogs to retrieve the leash, nudge their owners and beg for a trip to Largo Central Park. On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Kiwanis Club of Largo/Mid-Pinellas hosts its inaugural "Pawfest 2007," a carnival for kids and their canines.

Lisa Hurley, spokeswoman for the club, said the idea "is to give children and families an opportunity to have fun with the family pet and make them more aware of the love and care required."

There is no admission charge, but tickets will be sold for prizes and some carnival games and activities. Prize giveaways include golf, theater and dinner packages. Proceeds will benefit SPCA Tampa Bay and help fund service projects in the Largo area.

Dogs and kids can team up for contests, including look-alikes, best dressed pet and amazing pet tricks.

And, cover your ears, there's even a howling competition.

Besides the contests and carnival games, children can enter a poster contest, bounce on inflatables or make sand art.

The Doggy Mall will feature vendors selling pet clothing, accessories and services for the well-groomed canine.

For those looking for a new best friend, the SPCA and some rescue groups plan to bring adoptable pets.

Dogs, guided by handlers from the Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club, will demonstrate agility - twisting through weave poles and rocketing through tunnels. After the demos, dogs in the audience will get a shot at running the course.

The Largo police and Pinellas County Sheriff's Office will also showcase their canine units.

Health and safety are Pawfest themes. The Sheriff's Office will fingerprint children for free. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., a veterinarian will conduct free screenings.

The Bark Cafe and Ale House will offer food, drinks and doggie biscuits.

So go ahead. Let the dogs out. It's for a good cause.

IF YOU GO

Fido and friends

Pawfest 2007, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Largo/Mid-Pinellas, is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Drive. There will be contests and games for children and pets, vendors, skill demonstrations and pet screenings.

[Last modified March 2, 2007, 11:05:06]