For decades, it’s been known as Seattle’s biggest – and oldest – pet event of the year.
This year it will have a new twist and a new name.
Welcome to Woof By Woofwest, presented by the Seattle Kennel Club, with a wide mix of features never before offered at the annual dog fest at CenturyLink Field Event Center.
For the first time ever, the public can bring its well-behaved, well-controlled, vaccinated dogs . . . with a few stipulations. Fifty will be allowed each day – 25 in the morning session and another 25 in the afternoon. Advance registration is required on the event website, www.woofbywoofwest.com.
“The dog in your house is a Best In Show dog, too,” says Tammie Wilcox, SKC president. “We love all dogs and we want to be more inclusive with this event. We want to help all the pet owners learn about responsible ownership, health care, and fun activities to share in with your dog.”
Here are the basics for the un-entered dogs: one dog per person; dogs must be at least 6 months of age; a short leash will be provided at the door and must be attached to the dog at all times; no flexi-leads or retractable leads allowed inside the arena; “guest dogs” must enter through the Southeast street entrance on Royal Brougham Way; bring your own water bowl; you will be provided poop bags at the entry and will be expected to clean up after your dog; you will be asked to sign an acknowledgement at the door that you have read and agree to all event regulations; un-entered dogs will not be allowed in the show grooming area, center aisles of the conformation rings or the obedience or rally competition areas on the mezzanine upstairs.
Owners with un-entered dogs must purchase event tickets for everyone in their party.
Here are some of the activities available to owners and their un-entered dogs:
- My Dog Can Dog That: A trainer will help determine if your dog likes agility, obedience or can pass novice trick tests.
- Ask the Vet: An informal chance to ask a practitioner questions. This is not designed to be a clinical visit, however.
- After I’m Gone: Visit with an attorney about estate planning and other legal issues relating to you and your dog.
- Therapy Dogs info and testing information to help you determine if your dog is a good candidate for this rewarding endeavor.
- Canine Good Citizen testing. This is part of the American Kennel Club Family Dog Program aimed at enhancing the bond with your dog.
- Watch a variety of demonstrations and competition in agility and conformation.
- Check out the many vendors with dog equipment and collectibles.
Show hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Tickets prices are adults, $20; seniors (62 and over) and military, $12; juniors (4-14) $7; children under 4, free. Active-duty military and dependents must have valid ID documents.
Show sponsors are Trupanion, Nissan, and T-Mobile.
A portion of event proceeds will go to support the therapy dog program at Seattle Children’s Hospital, the Pet Population Control Fund for the Seattle Animal Shelter’s Spay and Neuter Clinic, and for the therapy dog and service dog programs at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System. Updated information will be available on www.woofbywoofwest.com
