Tail Waggin’ Fun

This Thursday marks our dog’s fourth year with us. Because we adopted Sasha from the Nike Animal Rescue Foundation (NARF) four years ago, we don’t know her exact birth date or age.

Instead, we celebrate the date of her adoption and are grateful for every day we have with her. On May 31, she will get a new toy that she hopefully won’t immediately obliterate (see the article, “” for an account on how she destroys toys) and a special treat. And we’re not alone—36 percent of dog parents give birthday presents and 20 percent of cat parents, according to a Petfinder.com survey. Whether or not it’s your pet’s birthday this week, here are some fun ways to get out and celebrate the season.

Walk Your Pooch on Lions Creek Trail

In Gilroy, grab your pooch and head over to the newly revamped . The City of Gilroy spent 1.5 million for trail upgrades, which include new benches, a paved trail and dog-waste baggies so locals can enjoy the trail with their furry friends. 

Utilize a Meetup Group to Socialize Your Furry Friend

Dog lovers post activities to share with their pooches on Meetup.com. Members ofThe South County Meetup for Small Happening Dogs get together for doggy playdates and to share K9-focused advice. More events to enjoy with dogs can be found on the South Bay Dog Lovers Meetup page.

Dog Days of Summer

This week’s First Friday in downtown Campbell is going to the dogs—in a good way. On June 1, dog parents are encouraged to bring their furry ones to join in on the First Friday fun with a DJ, live music and downtown merchants offering special treats. There will also be a doggie costume contest at 7 p.m. in the Courtyard. Dogs will compete for scariest, funniest, cutest and most original costumes. And if you’re looking to add to your family, the Humane Society Silicon Valley will have a pet adoption booth at . For more information, visit the Downtown Campbell Facebook Page.

Wine n’ Wag

On Wednesday, June 6, you can enjoy a night out with your furry best friend at The Pruneyard in Campbell. There will be live music by Isis and The Cold Truth (I heard them on New Year’s Eve—they’re good), wine tastings from local wineries and food offerings from restaurants in The Pruneyard. And of course, treats for your dog. Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. For more details, visit The Pruneyard website.

Walk Your Tail Off

Just a reminder that this Sunday, June 3, is the “Walk Your Tail Off for Homeless Pets” walk-a-thon at Los Gatos Creek Park. In addition to the walk, there will be a demonstration from the Disc Dogs of the Golden Gate, raffle drawings for prizes, a barbecue lunch for walk participants and contests. This is the 17th year for this fundraiser that benefits NARF. Visit the NARF website for more details and to register in advance.

Pet of the Week

Here’s Cooper, a handsome two-year-old Siberian Husky. He’s small for his breed (45 lbs.) and very well-mannered. He enjoys going on long walks and exploring the world. Although well behaved in the house and yard, he will need obedience training on basic commands such as “come,” “sit” and “stay.” For more information on Cooper and other dogs available for adoption, visit the Bay Area Siberian Husky Club website.

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