Jamaica Bay and the Rockaways

The Daily Plant : Tuesday, October 24, 2006

A Doggone Good Time

Photo by Susan Friedman

Pups and pooches dressed in costume flocked to Rockaway Beach for the first “It’s My Bark Day” on October 14.  This was the first event of its kind in the Rockaways and featured pet adoptions, costume contests, giveaways, and many activities for children such as an inflatable bounce castle, face painting and games.  Rockaways Administrator Jill Weber, Queens Recreation, and Partnerships for Parks spearheaded the event.

The four-legged park lovers delighted in an obstacle course and participated in a pre-Halloween costume contest and a doggie owner look-alike contest.  DJ Scotti played a wide variety of music and the Center for Animal Care and Control and North Shore Animal League brought their mobile unit for pet adoption.  PETCO, Belle Harbor Animal Clinic (part of Central Veterinary Associates) and representatives from the Office of Emergency Management were on hand to provide great giveaways and information on what to do with your pet in an emergency.  Science Diet also provided treats and toys for the pups and everyone enjoyed refreshments.

Puck, a miniature dachsund and one of the many participants at the dog festival, is looking forward to going trick or treating this Halloween.  Two years ago, this rising star was in a shelter for homeless dogs.  Thanks to owner Donna Marino, who adopted the pup from the shelter, Puck won the “It’s My Bark Day” costume contest, and now lounges on a doggie couch that converts into a comfy bed. Crazy for Dogs in Atlas Park in Glendale, Queens, donated the generous prize along with many others.  Puck was dressed for “Its My Bark Day” in a helmet and hockey jersey as a New York Ranger.

As a precursor to this year’s “It’s My Park! Day,” where thousands of volunteers celebrate their local parks through volunteer projects and community events, “It’s My Bark Day” celebrated New York City’s dogs and their love for parks and open spaces.  At the event, dogs enjoyed an obstacle course and active recreation in an open area that some wish to turn into an official dog run.  Over one hundred community members at the event signed up to become active in the creation of a much needed dog park in the Rockaways, wherever the location is agreed upon.

Parks is looking forward to working with the dogs and dog lovers of the Rockaway community on many more occasions.  This event was a sure reminder that people aren’t the only population that utilize New York City’s parks – we must also continue to welcome and celebrate our four-legged friends!

Written by Laura Prussin & Susan Friedman

QUOTATION FOR THE DAY

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love.
For me they are the role model for being alive.”

Gilda Radner
(1946 – 1989)

Know Before You Go

Paerdegat Basin Park