Dog Days of Summer event invites local dogs to Downtown Windsor

On Sunday, downtown Windsor is going to the dogs.

The Dog Days of Summer event is back for a second year. Hosted by the Downtown Windsor BIA and various local partners, it's billed as a family-friendly event for dogs and their owners.

Attendees can expect to see a wide selection of local vendors catering to their dog's needs, offering treats, accessories, grooming products, and various pet services. The event will also feature an obedience competition and a fashion show where participants and their pets are encouraged to wear matching outfits.

It will take place this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Senator Croll Park next to Windsor city hall. It's free to attend, and vendors fees benefit the Humane Society and the St. John Ambulance Dog Therapy Program.

Kb Singh, a local dog trainer and Dog Days organizer, says Windsor's dog community is strong. He wants to give dog owners more time to spend with their pets.

"People want to do fun stuff with their dogs but I don't think they have many opportunities to do it," he said. "So this was my way of trying to [give the opportunity] to anyone who loves dogs."

Singh says he hopes this event will also be beneficial to the downtown core.

"I wanted something right here in the middle of downtown so it helps Windsor, it helps the humane society, it helps St. John Ambulance, and obviously everyone has a fun time doing it," said Singh.

This year's fashion show will have some fierce competition.

Lyssa Meloche is the owner of Marzipan, a standard poodle with unmissable bright pink and purple fur. 

Meloche says this is Marzipan's second Dog Days, and Marzipan always generates conversation. 

"I'm a dog groomer who owns their own business, and she is a fantastic talking point and fantastic advertising for me."

James Kavanaugh says his bull terrier, Padme, has a wardrobe with more than 20 outfits for various occasions, including a Cinco De Mayo-themed fit and a Star Wars costume.

Kavanaugh, sporting a matching floral shirt with Padme, says he's excited for the upcoming "Dog Days" event after last years' success.

"[Padme] had a great time," said Kavanaugh. "She loves dressing up."

Organizers say for the obedience competition, dogs require valid immunization records and must register on the event website.