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Photo courtesy of SPCA of Anne Arundel County[/caption]
We know Chesapeake sailors love their dogs maybe even more than sailing, so here are some ways to celebrate the dog days of summer with your best friend:
Puppy Plunge. On August 23, the SPCA of Anne Arundel County will host its fourth annual Puppy Plunge at scenic Camp Letts in Edgewater, MD, from noon to 3 p.m. Get friends and family to sponsor your pup and then prepare to run full speed into the Rhode River to raise money for the SPCA. aacspca.org
Happy Yappy Hours. From now through October, join Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat every third Thursday of the month for traveling yappy hours. You and your pup can enjoy food, games, demonstrations, and even helpful pet tips. Check online at dogwoodacres.com to find out more information. The SPCA of Anne Arundel County also hosts a Yappy Hour every Thursday in August at Fado’s Irish Pub in Annapolis. aacspca.org
Historic London Town and Gardens. Make sure to come out September 16 for the Beer and Bark event! Tour the gardens with your dog and enjoy beer from Sweetwater Brewery and food from the Bullhead Pit Beef Truck from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Also keep an eye out on their website for free dog-friendly concerts held throughout the summer. And while events are free, a $10 donation is appreciated. historiclondontown.com
Take a Cruise. Whether you have your own boat or book a day cruise, make sure to get out on the Bay with your furry friend before summer is over. Dogs are always welcome on Watermark Cruises in Annapolis. cruisesonthebay.com. And with Seadog Cruises in Baltimore, every day is dog day! Book a speedboat cruise with them, and dogs ride for free. seadogcruises.com/baltimore.
Get Wet. Rent a stand-up-paddleboard or kayak, or grab your own, and take your pup out on the water with you; leave the cell phones and valuables at home though. Chances are one or both of you will be taking a swim at some point. And if that happens, might as well embrace it! Just make sure Fido has a PFD of his own.
Goin’ downy Oshun! Instead of hitting the boardwalk, head to Assateague National Seashore for some quality beach time. There are fewer crowds and your pup won’t be so distracted by the smell of Thrasher’s Fries. But before heading down just double check which sections of the park are dog-friendly. assateagueisland.com
Dogtober Fest Cruise. The SPCA of Anne Arundel County is hosting a dog-friendly cruise on the Harbor Queen of Annapolis. Guests will enjoy food from Graul's Market, music, games, a silent auction, and a full cash bar. Special refreshments will even be served for Fido. The party starts dockside at 6:00 p.m. and the Queen will depart at 6:30 p.m. for a one-hour cruise around the Annapolis Harbor. Tickets for the cruise are $30 for adults, $15 for children ages three to 11, and free for children two and under. Dogs cruise free! Half of ticket proceeds will be donated to the AACSPCA. Friendly on-leash dogs welcome. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended. Book online here!
