Story by Jack Robinson / Photos by Mark Molesworth

At top, The Westport Dog Festival on Sunday welcomed furry friends of all shapes and sizes, such as Cooper, a Great Dane. At left, Claudia Moses and her dog, Hutton, placed as runner-ups in the trick competition, impressing the judges with rolls, high-fives and jumps. Some dogs aimed to impress through dyed hair or fun outfits, many of which were showcased in the Best Dressed competition, left.

Dog lovers from all over Westport and beyond gathered Sunday in Winslow Park to celebrate the annual Westport Dog Festival, featuring competitions, a special guest pig and booths from various local organizations – and of course, lots of treats!

This was the 9th annual festival organized by the Westport/Weston Chamber of Commerce, and this year there was a packed schedule of events for people to enjoy, such as the Best Tail Wagger and Best Dressed competition, a K-9 demonstration by the Westport Police Department and an appearance by Gilbert the Party Pig.

There was a K-9 presentation by the Westport Police Department. that featured demonstrations and explanations of the duties of a K-9 unit.

There were also opportunities for dogs to let some of their energy out, including a machine brought by Alpha Dog Events in Madison, Connecticut, where dogs chased a fast-moving toy going around in circles.

As usual, there were many sponsors for this year’s event, all focused on the well-being of animals in the community.

“We have a lot of clients here, and we’re a local, family-owned community practice, and we just like to be part of the community, and see people, and represent ourselves,” said Dr. Jessica Melman of Bespoke Veterinary Services.

Jennifer Krasnow (left) and Ruth Ayles (right) with Oakley, a service dog. Krasnow and Ayles manned the booth at the Westport Dog Festival Sunday for PetPartners of Fairfield County, an organization dedicated to working with therapy and service pets. Photo by Mark Molesworth.

There were also competitions for dogs to partake in, such as Best Dressed, which attracted the most stylish, or Best Tail Wag. No matter what a dog’s specific skill set, there was a competition that every dog could enjoy.

“We’re excited to be competing in the Best Dressed competition,” sisters Angel and Savannah said. “Our dog’s official government name is Bobbert Bobby Bob, but he goes by Bob.”

 

Many different businesses and organizations sponsored the event and had booths at the festival, such as PAWS, an animal shelter in Norwalk.
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