ENCINITAS — For one day a year for the past nine years, Cardiff-by-the-Sea goes to the dogs — literally.
The Cardiff 101 Main Street group’s Cardiff Dog Days, set for Aug. 9, is billed as the county’s largest canine-centric event.
Between the six dog contests, pet adoptions and the Blessing of the Dogs (yes, the dogs are blessed by the Tibetan Meditation Center) it’s a must-do for four-legged friends, organizers said.
“There’s no better setting to bring your dog out for a great time and meet new friends and neighbors than Cardiff,” said Greta Ott, a program assistant with Cardiff 101 Main Street.
Among the highlights are the contest, including Best Kisser, Cutest Puppy and Best Dressed, an agility course, a doggie photo booth and a drawing for a chance to win free dog food for a year.
One of the event’s primary sponsors, local pet store Dirty Dogs, is giving away free dog food to eight dog owners that spend $30 at the store on the event’s date.
They will announce the winners at event’s close, at 5 p.m.
There will also be things to do for the dogs’ two-legged companions, including a beer garden, food vendors, an expanded kid-zone and a silent auction, in addition to the 200 vendors that will be on display.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Newcastle Avenue, Aberdeen Drive and Liverpool Drive in Cardiff.
Expect a crowd of more than 10,000 dogs, and of course, their loyal owners.
Admission is free.
