Every now and then, a dusty tornado of teeth and fur hurtles down the beach at Fisher’s Paradise this weekend.
What you’re seeing is a force of nature, the dogs of River and Sky.
Along with the thousand plus human attendees at the four-day festival July 20 to July 23, there are also a remarkable number of dogs in attendance. They’re everywhere from the dance floor to the beach, in various shapes, sizes, and temperaments.
Owners are asked to keep their dogs on a leash for the duration of the festival. And that becomes of obvious import when you see how many other dogs there are, and how many small lanes and paths they could get lost on.
Here are some more tips on how to bring a dog to festival like River and Sky:
-- If your dog is a jerk, it won’t matter whether your dog is on or off leash, leave it at home.
-- Don’t bring an unfixed dog to a crowded festival.
-- Keep your dog hydrated and cool in the shade, or by dips in a lake or river.
-- Make a list to ensure you bring dog food, bowls, pickup bags, a leash, and any other gear your dog requires.
-- Bring treats to keep your dog attentive and reward them for good behaviour.
-- Tie up your dog away from the speakers, they have sensitive ears!
-- Keep your dog on leash even if it’s well behaved, other dogs might not be, or people might not be comfortable with a dog running around.
-- For people who don’t have dogs, be aware that at any dog-friendly festival, unexpected things are apt to happen.Don’t leave food out, and be aware of your surroundings.
This year at River and Sky, the crew of dogs is missing a familiar face. Duke, a regal German Shepard whose name describes his status around Fisher’s Paradise in Field, Ont., passed away earlier this summer. He appreciated the years of dropped snacks around the festival. Duke leaves behind a legacy of canine attendee appreciation that will continue into the years ahead.
Many familiar faces did return, joined by new ones too. Take a look at some of the dogs of River and Sky, and their thoughts on the festival.
