By Lori Bosworth
Who let the dogs out? Woof, woof, woof, woof. Yes, it’s time for Winter Woofstock in Toronto again and your pooch will be chomping at the bit to get out to this year’s event held on Nov. 17 and 18, 2012 at the Direct Energy Centre. New this year is the Doggie Dating Service on both Saturday and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bullwrinkles Arena. You can enjoy a glass of Australia’s Fifth Leg Wine while your dog decides whether she’s interested in Lucky, Benjy or Duke. Just fill out your dog’s profile at the Fifth Leg Wine booth and take a photo of your dog for the Fifth Leg dating board.
If you sometimes have trouble understanding what your dog is trying to tell you, you may want to attend the “Dogs of Christmas Past” with doggie communicator Charlotte Szivak. Szivak, who communicates with dogs past and present, will speak and interact with audience members on both Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on the Main Stage and provide them with techniques to help communicate with their dogs.
Does your dog delight you with his amazing talents and tricks? Then why not share these with others at the Stupid Dog Trick Contest on Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 p.m. on the Main Stage. Register your dog at the Woofstock Information Booth from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. There will be one winner each day.
Santa isn’t only for kids; he’s also popular with canines! Get a photo with Santa and your dog and receive a small doggie gift by attending Breakfast with Santa between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. at Bullwrinkles Arena. Be sure to bring your own camera.
Don’t deny your doggie the chance to get decked out in holiday gear to compete in the Best Costume Contest on the Main Stage on both Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Your little pooch would look wonderful dressed as an elf, Rudolph, snowflake or one of the three wise men. Register at the Woofstock Information Booth from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. both days. One winner will be announced each day.
For all you dog owners, the Oakville Firefighters will be in attendance signing their calendar to support the Lions Foundation of Canada Guide Dogs. Get your dog’s pic with one of the firefighters (make sure to bring your own camera) then watch the firefighters strut at the fashion show kickoff on both Saturday and Sunday. And of course there are lots of exhibitors showcasing the latest doggie fashions, food and accessories just in time for Christmas.
Tickets are Adults $10, Seniors (60+) $5 and Children 5 and under Free. Get $2 off the adult admission by purchasing tickets online.
