SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, Pa. — Food trucks, K9 baked goods, dog collars, dog clothes, vendors, and more were at Locust Lake State Park in Schuylkill County for the 3rd Annual Bark in the Park event, all presented by the Friends of Tuscarora and Locust Lake State Park.
Robin Tracey, Locust Lake Environmental Educator, says, “Throughout the year, these guys do fundraisers for us, and this is one of them. This is one of the biggest ones, so there's a little bit for everybody.”
Educational resources for pet owners who like to be outdoors with their dogs were also available. These resources teach owners what to do if a venomous snake bites their dog and how to watch out for them in the wilderness.
The American Academy of K9 Water Rescue, the only organization of its kind in the United States, was also present with its rescue dogs Mow-that and Kelby. These dogs have completed more than 12 rescues at Beltzville State Park near Lehighton this summer.
President of the American Academy of K9 Water Rescue, George Abraham, says, “For instance, a Newfoundland like Kelby can pull 50 times her weight in the water, so you can jump in the water if a bought overturns. You can save four or five people and buy at the same time."
For many dog owners, this is a way to support their local state parks while creating memories with their furry loved ones.
This is Claudia Moyer's second time bringing her dog Ceasar, a Newfoundland like Kelby, to Bark in the Park.
Moyer says, “He's very special to me because my mom is actually from Newfoundland, Canada, so this is how I know about the breed. I love them. You know there are memories that you'll have from today, and you can never replace that.”
Joyce Schwartz from McAdoo says, “My former dog passed away in March. I used to bring her all the time, and I thought, "Ooo," this is something for her to do that would give her something else and new memories for me.”
Organizers say they are grateful so many people come out to support.
Nate Schock, Friends of Tuscarora Chairman & Secretary, says, “So to see so many people come out here today to enjoy a fall day is great. Dogs, you know, a dog-friendly park. It's fantastic.”
The Bark in The Park proceeds to Friends of Tuscarora and Locust Lake State Park.