Just Us: Bark in the Park

We are officially dog people. I never really knew what that meant, even after we got Rowdy, but this weekend it really became obvious that we are that stereotypical family with the SUV and the lab with his flappy ears hanging out of the back windshield, on their way to some event with other dogs and crazy dog owners. And to be perfectly honest, I'm ok with that.

The Portland Sea Dogs are a farm league for the Boston Red Sox, and their field is right downtown. In fact, as you are driving down 295 through the city, you can see the field just off to your right or left, depending on which way you are heading.

Every June the Sea Dogs host an event called "Bark in the Park." On that day, they invite dog owners to bring their pup to the park to participate in a parade and enjoy the game as a family. I'd always wanted to go, but never had a dog, so this year when tickets went on sale I was anxious to finally join the crowd, (you know, being a dog person and all). My friend Angie decided to come along with her chocolate lab Bristol, and we definitely made a day of it. It was a toasty 80ish degrees in the sun, but Planet Dog kindly provided a doggie kiddie pool for the pups (which MY pup decided would be a great urinal), and we had a great time marching around Hadlock Field with the other dogs (which, again MY pup decided would be a great urinal...and then some. Oops.). They got free balls, treats, and lots of play time in with the hundred or so other dogs that were in attendance.

Here are some pictures from the day. I couldn't believe how well behaved all the dogs were. Every once and awhile one would bark from the stands and start a little doggie cheering section, but it was great to be sitting with a bunch of other dog lovers who would laugh it off instead of rolling their eyes, and I think we all had fun hanging out with everyone's little buddies.