Hundreds of dog lovers and their furry friends are expected to attend the Harris Teeter/Purina® “Bark in the Park” dog festival, April 22, 2006 at McAlpine Creek Park, 8711 Monroe Road. The festival runs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. in the off leash dog park , known as Ray’s Fetching Meadow.

The event is free to dogs and people. Jay Stutz, host of Good Dog U on TV’s Animal Planet returns as a special guest this year. Carolina Panther Dan Morgan and former Panther Will Witherspoon are expected to sign autographs.

Festivities kick-off at 10 a.m. There will also be many contests such as: Most Unique Dog, Best Dressed Dog, Best Bark, Best Dog Trick, Biggest/Smallest Dog, and Best Pet/Owner Look Alike. There will also be a Celebrity Dog Parade, a silent auction, vendors of doggie products, services and lots of free samples. Harris Teeter will show off its “yourpet” line of dog products. Harris Teeter’s Ranchermobile will be on hand to sell refreshments with the proceeds going back to dog parks.

The Purina® Incredible Dog Team will perform unusual feats of canine intelligence and athletic prowess. Club K-9 of Charlotte will join in.

The winning canine in the Harris Teeter/ Purina® Bark in the Park Top Dog Photo Contest will also be honored. The Top Dog and his owner will be grand marshals of the Pooch Parade.

The Harris Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park festival will help raise money for future off-leash “dog parks.” Mecklenburg County has three dog parks with more in the works. The festival also contributes to animal adoption and rescue programs.

“Pooch Passes” for Mecklenburg County dog parks will be on sale at this event ($35/year for Mecklenburg residents, $50/year for non residents). Dog parks, operated by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department, are a popular place for dogs to run free and frolic in fenced meadows and woodlands. They are a great place for socializing by both dogs and people. The event is free to the public and to participants. Any dog with proof of current vaccinations may join in.