Get ready for a tail-wagging good time in Clermont.
The City of Clermont and the Clermont Police Department present the city’s first Pups in the Park event with the help of local business sponsors Pat the Dog and Foxtail Coffee Co.
“We invite the community to create special memories with their dogs at this exciting new event,” Interim City Manager Susan Dauderis said. “We love our Champion companions.”
Police Chief Charles Broadway is pictured with Zeus modeling a lifeguard outfit for the swimsuit competition.
Leashed dogs of all breeds are invited to break from their K-9-to-5 routines for a fun-filled, free lineup of programs from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Sat., June 12 at Lake Hiawatha Preserve, 450 12th St.
Pups and their people are welcome to participate in any and all events beginning with a 1-mile dog walk at 9 a.m., followed by a dog swimsuit parade and competition at 10 a.m. Throughout the event, enjoy a puppaccino with the “pawlice,” participate in the “ulti-mutt” Frisbee competition, and sit, stay and grab a treat from various vendors and food trucks. A live DJ will raise the “woof” all morning.
When you stop by for a puppuccino, get to know the officers and snap as many photos as “pawsible” at their photo booth.
“We wanted to bring a new twist to Coffee with a Cop,” Clermont Police Chief Charles Broadway said. “Our officers look forward to meeting our citizens and their four-legged best friends.”
For the Frisbee competition, show off your dog’s fetch skills and win prizes. Frisbees and other giveaways are free, first come, first served.
Those participating in the walk can enjoy the beautiful Lake Hiawatha Preserve’s shaded, scenic route. Don’t worry, there are plenty of stops along the way featuring fire hydrants and dog swimming pools to beat the heat.
At the swimsuit competition, impress the “puparazzi” with your dog’s best “vanity-fur”-ready fashion. Your pups can strut their stuff on the grassy green carpet in front of a local celebrity judge panel to win prizes and awards.
Pre-registration is encouraged but not required for the swimsuit and frisbee competitions online at www.ClermontFL.gov/events. The day of the event, please check in at the pavilion on the east side of County Road 561 by the lake.