Charlotte, NC - Three finalists have been chosen in the much-heralded Harris Teeter/Purina® Top Dog Photo Contest. It's now time for the public to vote for the very Top Dog.
The finalists were chosen by a panel of judges from a list of 66 entry photographs. They are Lola, Macy, and Sammy. Dog lovers may now cast their ballots by visiting
www.parkandrec.com, and clicking on "
Bark in the Park."
Voting is open through March 23, 2005, at 5 p.m. The winner will be announced on the Park and Rec web site March 25.
This contest is part of the Harris-Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park dog festival, April 9, 2005, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Ray's Fetching Meadow dog park, in McAlpine Creek Park, 8711 Monroe Road.
The Top Dog will receive a commissioned portrait worth $3,000 by nationally renowned local artist Mark Durham. He/she will also act as grand marshal of the Pooch Parade at the Bark in the Park dog festival, receive a year's supply of "yourpet" brand dog food, a Harris-Teeter® Bark in the Park Prize Pack, and a basket of goodies from Barbara's Canine Catering. Second and third place winners will also receive prizes, be members of the court of the Top Dog, and get to ride in the Pooch Parade.
The Bark in the Park dog festival will include a wide variety of activities for dogs and their owners. Jay Stutz, host of Good Dog U on TV's Animal Planet will be a special guest. The Purina® Incredible Dog Team will perform unusual feats of canine intelligence and athletic prowess. There will also be many contests such as: Fluffiest Dog, Best Dressed Dog, Most Unusual Looking Dog, Best Dog Trick, Most Spirited Tail Wag, Biggest Dog, Smallest Dog, and Best Pet/Owner Look Alike. Also: an Adopt-a-Pet Parade, a silent auction, vendors of doggie products, and lots of free samples. Festivities kick-off at 10 a.m. with the Pooch Parade.
The dog festival is free to the public and to participants. Any dog with proof of current vaccinations may join in. Observers say this is an event "for dogs and the people they own." For further information, call the East Park district office at 704-568-4044.