Dogs dazzle in competition

PUT-IN-BAY — The four-legged pups, over and over again, impressed the two-legged adults all day long. Many people and their furry companions attended the refreshed Put-in-Bay Dog Bowl on Friday on the island not far from The Roundhouse Bar. From May 29-30, DockDogs — known as the world's premier canine aquatics competition — took over McCann's Field on Put-in-Bay with high-energy competitions. People could watch or join in as dogs race down the dock and launch into the water in three exciting events: • Big air or distance jumping • Extreme vertical or high jumping • Spreed retrieve, a timed competition Officials from DockDogs relied on assistance from those representing the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau along with Shores & Islands Ohio to help promote this event, which involved bringing visitors to a premier destination spot. "What we wanted to do was highlight and showcase the island to families with four-legged family members, letting them know about all the pet-friendly activities, hotels and restaurants here," said Jon Limber, sports tourism manager for Shores & Islands Ohio. "It's a great way for families and dogs to explore the island in a different way." Among the adult-dog pairings participating in the festivities was Mindy Clark and her golden retriever, Shiner, who came from Dayton. "We just thought it would be something fun," said Clark, who also operated as a vendor, selling goods from her stand, Lemon's Dog Cookies. "We're glad we came." Activities continue on Saturday. People can learn more and sign up their dogs by visiting visitputinbay.com/events or shoresandislands.com.