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There are three days left of this year’s Florida Classic Clusters in Brooksville. THE NEW BARKER is once again honored to have been part of this two-week, all breed dog show. Today we hung out with the Junior Handlers. What a dedicated, energetic and genuinely nice group of kids. And their dogs seemed just as happy to be prancing around the ring with them. The show runs through Sunday from 8a to 5p. Get there early and catch the excitement. Free behind-the-scene show tours; get up close and personal with professional groomers in the grooming tents. Florida Classic Park is located at 5360 Lockhart Road, east of Brooksville.

A Rather Special Wine Tasting.
THE NEW BARKER and ISJ Productions are hosting a wine tasting on Friday, January 21 to benefit St. Petersburg’s Pet Pal Animal Shelter. The event will be at American Spirits, 230 3rd Street South in St. Petersburg from 7p until 9p. American Spirits will be pouring samples from between 15 to 20 of 2011’s best wine buys. Hors d’ oeuvres will also be served. Call 727.328.7738 for more information.

Also on Friday, January 21, SONO Cafe is hosting their monthly Yappy Hour. The Cafe serves up some of the most delicious food in the Bay Area. Great setting, overlooking the Curtis Hixon Dog Park at 120 West Gasparilla Plaza in Tampa. Yappy Hour will be from 6p-8p.

Rally to Rescue. Let’s Send These Dogs Homeward Bound.
Are you looking to add another dog or cat to your household? The Rally to Rescue adoption event in Pinellas Park will be your best bet on Saturday, January 22. More than 20 breed specific rescue groups will be on hand with their adoptables. There will be demonstrations and pet vendors. Learn more about rescue groups, what these volunteers do and how to become a volunteer foster pet parent yourself. Rally to Rescue will be from 10a until 2p at Pet Supplies Plus, 7331 Park Boulevard North in Pinellas Park.

For more dog-friendly events, visit http://www.thenewbarker.com/Events.htm
You may also want to follow THE NEW BARKER on facebook and sign up for the Weekend PUPDates at http://www.thenewbarker.com/PupDateSignUp.html
If it’s dog-friendly and in Florida, THE NEW BARKER has you covered…from Central Florida to Tampa Bay and North Florida to SOFLA.

Have fun this weekend and remember to dog responsibly.

Furever Plaid.
What do you get when you put a group of Scottish Terriers together with their humans? A whole lot of Plaiditude. On January 9th THE NEW BARKER and Cappuccino’s Altro Posto Cafe in Dunedin hosted the Scottish Terrier Club of Tampa Bay during the monthly Happy Yappy Hour. And, there was plenty of Tartan swirling around as this fun and feisty breed socialized with one another.

Alas, while it was too cold for any of the men to brave wearing kilts, there were more than a few Scotties who donned some handsome plaid dog wear. The gathering was an eclectic group that included several champion Scottish Terriers, experienced agility competitors and a rescued puppy mill breeder dog. The event raised around $500 for the Club’s own rescue group.

“It was so much fun that we’ve already booked the event for next January,” said volunteer and Rescue Coordinator, Janet Skinner. Rescue groups interested in having a Happy Yappy Hour booked can call Cappuccino’s Cafe at 727.738.8009. There are some Sunday openings still available, but they do go pretty fast.

Thinking Outside the Crate.
What do you get when government officials and their constituents communicate by putting creative ideas on the table? A solution that will help save more dogs and cats from euthanasia. That’s exactly what happened less than a year ago, when Animal Services of Manatee County floated a concept to the county commissioners that would make adoptable dogs and cats more accessible to the public. The idea came to fruition and just this week, on January 10th, Manatee County Animal Services opened its new Adoption Center at 305 25th Street West, Downtown Bradenton. The vacant space in a county-owned building is a visible, bright and airy storefront that should get plenty of foot traffic. “We’re convenient to folks who work Downtown and might want to stop in during their lunch breaks,” said Animal Services Chief, Kris Weiskopf.


Kris explained to THE NEW BARKER that Manatee County Animal Services has transfer agreements with about 60 animal welfare groups around Tampa Bay and beyond. “In 2009 Manatee County’s euthanasia rate was at 61%. In 2010 it dropped to 55%. We want to continue lowering those numbers and we see the storefront as one solution that can help us reach our goal.”

KuDOGs to Manatee County Animal Services for such an innovative initiative. It’s this type of progressive thinking (which by the way did not necessitate additional funding) that makes a difference in the positive growth of a community. Shown above are two dogs that were available at the Adoption Center’s opening on Monday: Mazda and Jésus.

PUGz Paying it Forward
Dunedin has yet another dog-friendly eating and drinking establishment. PUGz Bar & Grill has embraced the dog community and the dog community has certainly embraced them. During the holidays the restaurant collected donations for Dunedin Dog Rescue under their Christmas tree.

Stay Pup-to-Date on dog-friendly events by visiting THE NEW BARKER calendar and also by signing up for Weekend PupDates. You’ll receive a current list of dog-friendly events a couple of times a month. Some hot dog-friendly events this weekend: Florida Classic Clusters/Brooksville; Cocktails for a Cause/Mise en Place/Tampa; Dogs Dig Downtown Bradenton; Barkarilla at Gaspar’s Grotto/Ybor City; Mutts & Martinis/Tavares.

Need more? Be sure to subscribe to the one Florida lifestyle magazine devoted to dogs and their dog-loving human companions. THE NEW BARKER is a quarterly magazine full of relevant stories, beautiful photos, travel and health tips and more. Each cover of THE NEW BARKER features an original piece of art by a different Florida artist, making each issue a collector’s item.

Do you have the latest issue of THE NEW BARKER yet?

It’s been reported to THE NEW BARKER that family dogs in Florida have willed on this unseasonably cold weather we’re having. The reason? So they can sleep in bed with their humans, of course. And the dogs are winning. More than ever, people have been making exceptions to their house rules, and are allowing dogs up on their beds. What is going to happen when the weather warms up? THE NEW BARKER predicts dog trainers will be very busy in March.

Holiday Sightings
‘Twas the night before Christmas in Downtown Sarasota.
Many creatures were stirring, humans and dogs taking walks.
Wine glasses were placed on the tables with care,
Knowing Cafe Americana diners soon would be there.
While waiting for two quarts of freshly made sauce,
What to my wondering eyes should appear?
A Harley-Davidson bike with sidecar and five tiny dogs.

And what a sight. Dan and Mari were dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their Maltese Bikers were dressed as little furry elves.

You Let Those Dogs Out.
If Sunday, December 26 was any indication, dogs and their humans have cabin fever and are ready to get outdoors. Despite the cold temperatures and wind gusts, there was a really nice crowd at Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo for the Annual Holiday Lights Dog Parade. The Holiday Lights spectacle continues through January 2, and dogs are allowed to stroll through the gardens along with their humans.

Speaking of getting out – this is the week to catch some great buys for dog supplies. We hear that Downtown Dogs in Hyde Park is the go-to place for Gasparilla Pirate Gear for dogs. Get that gear and book a Pet Pirate photo session with photographer Nicole Geller. You’ll be registered to win a chance to ride on a Gasparilla Parade float with your dog. Too cool for words.

And to keep the Christmas spirit burning bright, check out the fabulously festive dog boutique, Pawsitively Posh Pooch on 4th Street in St. Pete. In fact, make a day of it and visit One Lucky Dog, just down the street for some special goodies. Then hop on over to Pet Food Warehouse to check out their newly expanded store and beautiful cat room featuring adoptables from Save Our Strays. Getting hunger pangs? Visit dog-friendly restaurant El Cap on 4th Street in St. Pete for a delicious burger and fries.

Looking for unique breed specific gift ideas for that hard-to-buy-for human on your list? You have to check out Paw Paws in Countryside Mall/Clearwater. They have more than 50 different breed specific items. Want to stock up on some pretty dog-themed tree ornaments? Visit Fluffy Puppies Dog Boutique in Clearwater with more than 2500 square feet of total dog fun. Then step across the street for a respite of delicious dessert and gourmet tea at Wildflower Cafe.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting St. Pete Beach, check out the shops on historic Corey Avenue. Say hello to Max, the store dog at Gone to the Dogs and delight in some one-of-a-kind dog bowls, treat jars and toys.

Dog Events
The weather should start to warm up a bit for the weekend and that’s good news. Dog-friendly events will start to heat up too. On New Year’s Eve in Key West, it’s the Sixth Annual Key West Dachshund Walk at noon, just for the fun of it. In West Palm Beach, December 31 through January 1, the Tailwaggers AKC Agility Trials take place at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Our fave band, The Yard Dogs, will be playing at the Ft. Myers Beach Moose Lodge on January 1 for the 6th Annual Hair of the Dog Party. The monthly Pets on the Patio at Gaspar’s Grotto in Ybor City has been moved to January 8.

Looking for a little culture and comedy? Ventriloquist Todd Oliver brings his band of merry dogs to The Lakeland Center on Sunday, January 9 for a show at 3pm. Come see Lucy, Elvis and Irving in a hilarious stage production of talking dogs. What, you’ve never heard a dog talk? Then, you’re in for a real treat. Learn what your dogs are saying about you behind your back. Tickets are on sale now and $4.00 of each ticket sold will benefit the SPCA in Lakeland. If you’re lucky enough to go, please remember to bring along an unopened can or bag of dog food for the shelter.

PUPDATES –
More events are on the near horizon, including the annual Florida Classic Clusters, an incredible two-week AKC-sanctioned January event in Hernando County. Be sure to mark your calendars for the March 5 Bark in the Park event. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay, Florida Boxer Rescue, Fletcher’s Harley-Davidson and THE NEW BARKER are bringing all members of the RESCUE INK team to the Bay Area for the Humane Highway Tour.

As always, stay Pup-to-Date on the latest dog-friendly events by signing up for PupDates. See you around, dog fans. And remember: Please Dog Responsibly.

The Winter edition. Good, clean fun with stories as fresh as the driven snow, but much warmer. It’ll warm the cockles of your heart and turn a frown upside down. If you are a subscriber, sit back, relax and we thank you for your support. If you feel lucky, visit one of our distributing partners before they run out. http://www.thenewbarker.com

Tomorrow (Saturday) THE NEW BARKER will be heading to Dogs Dig Downtown Bradenton at the Farmer’s Market on Old Main Street. Photos with Santa from 9:30a-11:30a and then at noon there will be a Doggy Attire Contest with awards. Benefits the Humane Society of Manatee County. THE NEW BARKER will also be in St. Petersburg on Beach Drive as the Museum of Fine Arts partners with the SPCA Tampa Bay to celebrate the mixed breed dogs. The Great American Melting Pot Dog Contest will take place at noon. If your dog is any kind of mix (and at least half of the dogs living in American households today are) then come on out. Contest categories include Best Dog Trick, Biggest and Smallest Lap Dog, American Melting Pot Idol, Biggest Owner and Smallest Dog/Biggest Dog. The contest sign up begins at 10. We’re also asking for donations of unopened cans or bags of dog and cat food. For your donation, the Museum of Fine Arts will give you a 20% discount on an annual membership. Ahhh, The Art of Dog is at work here.

On St. Pete Beach, it’s a Christmas Parade featuring the Merry Bichons from the Suncoast Bichon Club. Afterwards, stop by Gone to the Dogs for some holiday cheer and very special, specials.

Speaking of special, specials – a furry dogmother told us that 4th Street N in St. Petersburg is going to be a happening place tomorrow. Check out the dog-theme Christmas trees at Pawsitively Posh Pooch.

And down the street at One Lucky Dog, they’ve reported to us that they’re having some special Holiday Savings Events for the next couple of days.

On Sunday, December 12, THE NEW BARKER will be at Cappuccino Cafe’s monthly Happy Yappy Hour from 1p-4p. Great Pyr Rescue, those big, beautiful furry Christmas dogs will be the beneficiary of Sunday’s event. Live entertainment and your $5 donation gets you a glass of house wine. If we ask nicely, maybe the chef will serve up some kind of hot toddy too. Give her a call – 727.738.8009.

On Thursday, December 16 at Hyde Park Village, Downtown Dogs co-hosts the HOWLiday Block PAWty. THE NEW BARKER has attended the last couple of these and they are alot of fun. Music, great food and beverages and it benefits the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. for more info, call Downtown Dogs at 813.250.DOGS.

Stay warm and remember to dog responsibly.

Doug Koktavy, author of the award-winning book, The Legacy of Beezer and Boomer is making several stops in Florida this weekend. The New Barker dog magazine and TradeWinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach have partnered with several retailers to provide Doug with a venue in Sarasota, Apopka, Clearwater and Tampa. 50% of the book sales will be going to various rescue groups in Florida as a result. “Our goal is to sell 100 books and raise around $1,000 for each venue’s rescue group,” said Anna Cooke, editor of The New Barker.

And if Thanksgiving travel plans have you out-of-town during this five-day event, you can still purchase your book and have it signed by the author. The owners of each of the businesses hosting the events will hold onto your signed copy until you return. If you are a dog lover or know someone who is, The Legacy of Beezer and Boomer will make a thoughtful holiday gift, personally inscribed by the author. Beautifully illustrated by artist Chris Smith, the book is a gift that gives twice, knowing that 50% of the purchase price will be going to a Florida rescue group.

A bit about the book:
Doug’s beautiful Black Labradors, Beezer and Boomer both had terminal illnesses, but they left behind a legacy of amazing lessons. Doug wants pet owners to know that while you may be saying goodbye to your furry or feathered family member, these are not the worst of times, but the best. The book is much more moving and inspirational than it is sad. In fact, it was bestowed the prestigious Nautilus Book Award in April, 2010. The book is in good company with other Nautilus Book Award winners, including Deepak Chopra, MD and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

“When we think about the days ahead without our cherished pet, we give in to the fear. We’re so afraid, in fact, that we’re actually missing out on what could be our pet’s best gift to us.”

Anyone living with companion pets should have a copy of this book in their library to refer back to from time to time. There are wonderful life lessons on the pages, things that one can put to use daily, in all relationships.

Doug’s first stop is this Friday evening in Sarasota for a wine reception at Wet Noses Dog Boutique in St. Armands Circle. Christine Baer, owner of Wet Noses said of the book, “When my dog Max was diagnosed with cancer, Anna told me about The Legacy of Beezer and Boomer. I went right out to purchase a copy and immediately read it. It was just so helpful for me. I absolutely loved the book, and I’m looking forward to meeting Doug this weekend. The reception is my way of saying thank you for writing such a wonderful book.”

The reception at Wet Noses will be from 5:30pm until 7pm. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served. A $5 donation is requested which will go towards the purchase of the book. Doug will be signing books, and 50% of the proceeds will be going to the Humane Society of Sarasota County.

“We’re thrilled that Doug is coming to Sarasota and helping us raise much-needed funds for the shelter,” said Executive Director, Deborah Millman. She added, “One thousand dollars will provide food for all our shelter pets for more than a month. It will provide health checks and spay/neuter for 20 orphans waiting to be adopted.”

On Saturday, Doug will then be at Media on Main in Downtown Sarasota from 10am until noon. He will give a presentation along with Bentley’s House, a local pet grief counseling group. This will be another Sarasota opportunity to get up close and personal with the author, have your book signed and again – 50% of the book sales will go to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Contact Chris Baer at Wet Noses to reserve a copy of the book for either Friday’s or Saturday’s event. 941.388.DOGS (3647).

The rest of Doug Koktavy’s itinerary is as follows:
Sunday, November 28, 1p-3p
Centers for Animal Therapies/C.A.T., LLC
In Apopka. Call Jo at 407.869.1145
50% of book sales will go to the C.A.R.E. Foundation.
“One thousand dollars will provide a new roof for the pen area, housing four dogs, two goats, a pig and a tortoise,” said Christin Burford, Executive Director of the C.A.R.E. Foundation. “Each of these rescued animals works hand-in-hand with autistic children,” she added. Currently, the roof is a torn tarp.

Monday, November 29, 6:30p-8p
Fluffy Puppies, Clearwater
Call Kris at 727.446.7999
50% of book sales will go to Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida.
“One thousand dollars will treat five dogs for heartworms and provide annual shots for 20 dogs waiting to be adopted,” said Lise Amundrud, a volunteer with Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida. “We have more than 120 Labs in foster care right now and spend on the average, $450 per dog in medical costs. So, $1,000 will help offset our high medical expenses,” she added.

Tuesday, November 30, 6:30p-8p
Downtown Dogs, Hyde Park Village in Tampa
Call Rene at 813.250.DOGS
50% of book sales will go to TampaPets.org, a partnership between Hillsborough County Animal Services, Humane Society of Tampa Bay and about 60 rescue groups.
“One thousand dollars will go towards the 2011 Tampa Pet Adoption Expo Fund to ensure the expos will continue to remain free to rescue groups participating,” said Cory Cooper, board president of TampaPets.org.

Doug Koktavy is an attorney and now Certified Counselor, Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement. If you or someone you know has lost a pet or going through a pet’s terminal illness, come hear Doug talk. It could be the single, most inspirational thing you do all holiday season.

Anyone looking to add a new pet to the family unit, come to the Florida State Fairgrounds this Saturday, November 13. TampaPets.org, Hillsborough County Animal Services and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay come together with more than 40 rescue groups. Vendor spots have been sold out for some time. FREE PARKING. FREE ADMISSION. FREE FUN. Find that dream pup and make its dream come true.

November 2, 2010 – Today is Election Day in the United States. Once again, the nation’s eyes will be on Florida as its citizens vote for a new Governor in a hotly contested race. In an effort to get out the vote, The New Barker, Florida’s top dog lifestyle magazine, has organized dog owners for a Rally to Restore Dogma. Whether you are a Dogmacrat or Repuplican, let your bark be heard at the voting booths. Need to know who’s running for what in Florida? Go here: http://www.uselections.com/fl/fl.htm

All tongue-and-cheek aside, seriously, today is an important day in America.
Thankfully, whatever the outcome, life goes on with our dogs.

Friday, November 5 visit Taste Cafe in Safety Harbor for the unveiling of the Humane Society of Pinellas County’s 2011 Calendar. The suspense is finally over. Who made the calendar’s cover? Taste Cafe is located at 500 Main Street, Safety Harbor.

On Saturday, November 6 it’s the 4th Annual Wag-A-Palooza at Plaza Bella on Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico. Hosted by the Merchants of Plaza Bella, the free event will feature rescue groups and their adoptables, valuable savings for holiday shopping and delicious food samplings. For more information, contact Debbie at 813.681.8686.

Also on Saturday, November 6, it’s Dox-A-Palooza, the annual fundraising event hosted by DARE, Dachshund Adoption, Rescue and Education. The event takes place at the Mango/Seffner Dog Park, 11717 Clay Pit Road in Seffner. There will be a silent and live auction, rummage sale, dog costume contest and plenty of raffle prizes. And of course, what would a Dachshund event be without the famous Wiener Races?

November 6 is the first Saturday of the month and that means it’s time to celebrate Pets on the Patio at Gaspar’s Grotto in Ybor City – one of the coolest pirate bars in the world. Check out their new Galley, updated menu (re-vamped with the knowing palate of Jeannie Pierola), and the renovated patio. The giant, remote-controlled red umbrellas are a fabulous touch. And check out the new wall mural being created by pet portrait artist Anna Hamilton for TampaPets.org. Your pet could be forever immortalized in the pirate ship painting. Just send in a picture of your pet, or bring one along Saturday evening. For sign up to the PupArt Mural, go to http://www.tampapets.org/events.php
Gaspar’s Grotto is located at 1905 East 7th Avenue in Ybor City. Call 813.248.5900 for new Pets on the Patio hours.

If your holiday plans include bringing a new dog or cat into your home, consider adopting. Another consideration: think about adopting before the rush of the holidays is upon us in an effort to calmly introduce your new pet into his or her environment. While the thought of presenting a new puppy wrapped in a shiny red ribbon is tempting, oftentimes the excitement during the immediate holidays is too much stimulation for a new pet. And for humans too, especially children. Fortunately, we have a couple of early adoption options for consideration.

On November 13 TampaPets.org, in conjunction with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay and Hillsborough County Animal Services, will be hosting its sixth Adoption Expo at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Through this unique partnership and with the help of the ASPCA, the event continues to remain free to all participating rescue groups and to the public. Another bonus for the Fall Adoption Expo – the parking is free. Visit http://www.tampapets.org/expo.php for more information. This is an all-round great experience for the entire family.

The Happy Paws Pet Expo takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 13 and 14 at the Fort Lauderdale War Memorial Auditorium. This event has been in the works for almost a year and will be one of the best bets for a two-day event. Families are encouraged to bring their dogs as this is an interactive event, complete with competitions in agility, flyball and more. Entertainment from media personalities and some amazing performing animals as well. And of course, rescue groups will be on hand with their adoptables ready to take home.

Also on Saturday, November 13, Pug Rescue of Florida is gathering Pug lovers from across the state to the largest Pug Meet-up of all time. PugsGiving will be held at the Maitland Civic Center. And speaking of Pugs, one of Florida’s biggest Pug lovers, the incomparable Robert Plunket, will be emceeing Hot Dogs and Cool Cats at Michael’s on East in Sarasota. Mr. Plunket has scripted a murder mystery to outshine all others. It’s all in fun and all to benefit the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC). For ticket information, call HSSC at 941.955.4131.

For details on these events and a complete calendar of Florida dog-friendly events, go to http://www.thenewbarker.com/Events/htm

The New Barker (www.thenewbarker.com/Events.htm) is certainly the Howl-O-Ween Headquarters for dog-friendly Fall Events. Dog-friendly farmer’s markets are almost in full swing for the season now, including Downtown Bradenton. The New Barker has partnered with Realize Bradenton, an organization of arts, culture and heritage to host Dogs Dig Bradenton. These dog-friendly events begin this Saturday, October 16 and will run one Saturday a month through Spring, 2011 at the Downtown Bradenton Farmer’s Market. The farmer’s market itself runs every Saturday.

Also this Saturday, it’s the SPCA of Tampa Bay’s 20th Annual 3K Pet Walk in Straub Park, in beautiful Downtown St. Petersburg on the waterfront. This is another great setting with lots of vendors and thousands of dog lovers walking for a cause.

Beginning this Saturday through Sunday October 31, it’s the 9th Annual Pumpkin Patch in Tampa’s Hyde Park Village. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. The piece de resistance is on October 23 when Downtown Dogs co-hosts its annual Hyde Park Masquerade. Call Downtown Dogs at 813.250.DOGS to reserve your spot on the roster. This is always a fun event.

Sunday, October 17 at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach, The New Barker is co-hosting Dog Day at the Museum for the exhibition, WOOF! Art of the Dog. The museum is located at 352 S. Nova Road, Daytona Beach. Dogs and humans can stroll the grounds and admire the outdoor sculptures. Dog sitters will be available for humans who would like to go inside the museum to see artwork by dog artists including William Wegman and George Rodrigue.

Did you know that our Doggie DNA enables The New Barker to be in multiple places at one time this weekend? Well, that and thanks to a bevy of Rover Reporters who love covering Dog Stories for us. So, we’ll also be at the festivities this Sunday, October 17 during the Open House at the Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club in Clearwater from 10a – on, at 2101 Logan Street, Clearwater. Call 727.449.8738. Come out to see agility demos and dancing with dogs. Really. Dancing. With DOGS. And it’s all free.

Save These Dates: Here’s The Dog-Down on the most celebrated Halloween Events of the Season:
October 23 – The New Barker, along with Paw Paws Pet Boutique in Countryside Mall, hosts the first ever Spooktabulous Pet Costume Contest, benefiting the Humane Society of Pinellas. Registration starts at 10:30a. There will be a bevy of prizes for the winners. Call 727.726.7299 or visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org to pre-register.

October 23 – Hyde Park Pet Masquerade, co-hosted by Downtown Dogs. Registration begins at 10a. The event benefits the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Great venue with some of the most creatively original costumes around. Call 813.250.DOGS for more information.

October 23 – Happy Dal-loween and Fall Festi-Dal, hosted by Dalmatian Rescue of Tampa Bay. This polka-dots-and-moonbeam event is never spotty in its fun, food, games, raffle prizes and overall furvolity. The event starts at 10:30am and goes on until 3p at Lake Park, 17302 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. www.dalrescuetampabay.org

October 23 – The folks at Groovy Cats and Dogs in Carrollwood are at it again with their annual Groovy Monster Bash from 6p-9p. Reserve your tickets now to celebrate Dia de los Muertos with delicious food and drink. Proceeds will benefit Lost Angels Animal Rescue. Make that Groovy call to 813.265.1333. It could change your (social) life.

October 23 – The Jacksonville Dog Fanciers Association and The New Barker present the Third Annual Hallow-WOOF from 9am-4pm at the club’s Activity Site, 6932 Morse Avenue, Jacksonville. Free parking and free admission. Call Pat at 904.693.0837 for more information. Established in 1939, this club is one of Florida’s oldest AKC All-Breed Dog Clubs in the state. That’s worth the price of admission (Free).

October 23 – The SPCA of Central Florida hosts its 10th Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk from 9a-1p at Cranes Roost Park in Uptown Altamonte. They’re already halfway to their fundraising goal of $80,000. What are you waiting for? Wiggle on over and start walking. Help the SPCA of Central Florida meet their goal. Visit www.OrlandoPets.org

October 23 – The Humane Society of Sarasota County hosts their 13th Annual Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade. Visit www.hssc.org to pre-register. Remember to bring an unopened bag or can of dog food for their Food Pantry.

October 23 – Germain BMW of Naples hosts Strut Your Mutt, billed as Naples’ Premier Halloween Pet Costume Contest. Festivities begin at 11a and go on until 2p at the dealership, 11286 Tamiami Trail N. Celebrity judges include Naples Mayor Bill Barnett. Vendors and lunch. Proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Naples.

October 23 – The Tavares Hush Puppy Dog Parade in Wooten Park, Downtown Tavares is going to be a happening event. Festivities begin at 3p with hayrides, pumpkin patch, farmers market, splash park and later that evening at 7:30 – Grammy Award Winner, Buckwheat Zydeco brings some fabulous Cajun music to the park. Co-hosted by The Green K9 and The New Barker. Visit www.thegreenk9.com or call 352.253.5205.

October 24 – Pet Food Warehouse is hosting its annual Fall Pet Fest from Noon until 2p at 6155 18th Street North in St. Petersburg. Come check out their newly renovated and expanded storefront. Registration begins at 1:30. These folks are serious about their Pet Costume Contest: Three Grand Prizes of $500, $300 and $200 in Pet Food Warehouse Gift Certificates will be handed out. All proceeds will benefit the SPCA Tampa Bay.

October 24 – It’s the 6th Annual BarktoberFest, a fundraiser for Paws Park at Jacksonville Beach. For more info, visit www.pawsparkjaxbeach.com

October 27 – Hyde Park Village and Downtown Dogs present a very dog-friendly Live Music Concert Series. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

October 28 – This is a big day for Halloween and Dog Lovers. Fluffy Puppies hosts its 4th Annual Bark-O-Ween Party and Costume Contest. Co-sponsored by The New Barker, this hair-raising good time will be at O’Keefe’s Tavern, 1219 S. Ft. Harrison in Clearwater, from 6p-9p with celebrity judges and Kristen Levine, Wizard of Paws for Fetching Communications, emceeing. Visit www.barkoween.com for the registration form. Specials on yummy drinks and food. Proceeds will benefit Dunedin Dog Rescue.

October 28 – One Lucky Dog Yappy Hour and Halloween Celebration. Kick back and join your friends for some serious fun and shopping this evening from 5p-8p, at 5320 4th Street North, St. Petersburg. There will be great specials on Halloween costumes too. Call 727.527.5825 or visit www.shoponeluckydog.com

October 28 – Pawsitively Posh Pooch is hosting a Pawsitively Posh Halloween Costume Party during their Yappy Hour event, 6p-8p. Free wine, beer and delicious appetizers are always served. Prizes will be awarded for: Funniest, Scariest and Most Original costumes. Humans are encouraged to dress up too for a chance to win the Best Human Costume Contest. Donations are requested for Pet Pal Animal Shelter. Call 727.892.9303. The store, with a fab, bigger-than-life dog painting in the window by local artist Robert Phelps, is located at 1425 4th Street North, St. Petersburg.

October 29 – Head to St. Pete Beach because Halloween has Gone to the Dogs. The Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest event is from 5p-8p. The grand prize for the best dog costume? A three day, two night stay at the dog-friendly TradeWinds Island Grand Resort on St. Pete Beach. Gone to the Dogs is located at 310 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. Co-sponsored by The New Barker.

October 29 – The Humane Society of Manatee County presents A Tail Wagging Tail Gate Party from 6:30p-10:30p at the beautiful Palma Sola Botanical Gardens, 9800 17th Ave., NW Bradenton. Co-sponsored by The New Barker.

October 30 – Stride for Strays. Take a step and help save the life of a dog or cat. From 8a-1p at Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes in Tampa. All proceeds benefit Animal Coalition of Tampa (ACT) a low cost spay/neuter clinic. Call 813.250.1234. Co-sponsored by The New Barker, this is one fundraising event not to be missed this year.
Visit www.stride.actampa.org

October 30 – The 2nd Annual Bay to Bay Stroll, presented by Nicole Geller Photography. For the second year in a row, this talented artist single-handedly organizes a great event with proceeds going to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay and the Susan G. Koman Cancer Foundation. Contact Nicole at 813.837.4786.

October 30 – In-DOG-Nito and Paws on Parade, Tom Varn Park, 301 Darby Lane, Brooksville. Call 352.686.9485.

October 30 – Fright Night, St. Armands Circle. Wet Noses Boutique tells us this will be the largest dog-friendly Halloween event in all of Sarasota. The event is from 6p-9p with a special performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller by the Sarasota High School Drama Department. Kids and dogs can Trick or Treat around the Circle. Traveling to St. Armands for the event? Make reservations at the dog-friendly Hotel Indigo in Downtown Sarasota. Get up the next morning and visit one of the most beautiful Farmer’s Markets in Florida.

Events are being added daily, so be sure to check back often to www.thenewbarker.com/Events.htm. It’s also a good idea to become part of The New Barker Facebook page. And you can subscribe to The New Barker, Florida’s top dog lifestyle magazine by going online.

Florida may not have four discernible seasons, but one look at the calendar and POOF. The Dog Days of Summer are over. October marks the beginning of what promises to be a very busy dog-social season. And Floridians love to party aplenty with their pups.

Tonight (Wed., 9/29) those partying pups with Dunedin Dog Rescue (www.dunedindogs.com) are closing out their summer with Dog Days of Summer, Gone at Decker Ross Interiors, 1445 Court Street in Clearwater. We hear some great food and entertainment will be available plus a chance to meet artist Anna Hamilton, she of the now famous DogEden Dog Mural in Dunedin and the soon-to-be famous PupArt Mural at Gaspar’s Grotto in Ybor City. If you want your dog to be forever immortalized as a Pirate Pup in Ybor, visit the following link and scroll down for sign-up information. Cool cats are invited.
http://www.tampapets.org/events.php

Tomorrow night in Bradenton at the Roo (as the Kangaroo Pub is affectionately known), it’s Yappy Hour from 5p-8p. The Pub is located at 427 12th Street W. on Old Main Street.

The New Barker Pick-of-the-Week Pup Event goes to the Blessing of the Animals this Saturday, just outside the fabulously cool SONO Cafe: adjacent to the Tampa Museum of Art and overlooking the Curtis Hixon Dog Park. In honor of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and ecology, the wonderful rescue group, St. Francis Society Animal Rescue is hosting the free event with their Adoptables on hand. Bring chairs and/or blankets to enjoy the view overlooking the water and the University of Tampa’s historical minarets. The vendor-filled event starts at 3p with an inter-faith service and blessing starting at 4p-7p. This is going to be a big one, so come early, bring plenty of water for yourself and pets. And, remember to count your blessings – each and every furry one of them.

Of course, there are plenty of Blessings of the Animals going on across Florida all weekend. The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi is officially October 4 and commemorates his life. Two other Blessings taking place this Saturday worth mentioning: a Pet Fair with Blessings, starting at 10a at Lake Seminole Presbyterian Church at 8505-113th Street Seminole (Pinellas County) and in Sarasota at St. Wilfred Episcopal Church, benefiting the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Click here for an abbreviated list with a web address to find more Blessings in your zip code. St_Francis_of_Assisi@SONO

If you’re looking for some high-speed action this weekend, check out the Cruising 4 Critters III hosted by the Gulf Coast Harley-Davidson, benefiting the Humane Society of Pinellas.
http://humanesocietyofpinellas.org/events.htm

Another high-speed, action-packed event will be at the Dog Training Club of St. Petersburg, 4400-B 34th Street (US Hwy 19). The Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club is hosting an Obedience and Rally. Whew – those dogs are fast and fun to watch.

Planning a little bit ahead – next Saturday (October 9) it’s the Natural Paws-A-Palooza hosted by Groovy Cats and Dogs, Carrollwood (Tampa). This will be an educational and entertaining afternoon of health and wellness for your pets. Area pet wellness and lifestyle experts, including Yvonne Guibert, will be on-hand along with veterinarians, trainers and nutritionists. It’s all free and there should be some cool handouts in the goody bags.

This is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg for Dogtober’s dog events. The Halloween events continue to be added to www.thenewbarker.com/Events.htm so be sure to keep checking back. And if an event hasn’t been included, well, 50 lashes with a wet Labrador Retriever’s tail. Send it along to events@thenewbarker.com.

Remember to dog responsibly.