Really Awesome Dog Day at the park

Saturday was a beautiful day for dogs at the Rotary Dog Park — and a beautiful day for the second annual Really Awesome Dog Day. The event benefited Kinston’s Raising Awareness for the Developmentally Disabled (RADD), a member organization of the Lenoir/Greene United Way.

At least three dozen dogs, along with dozens of their humans and friends, took part in the festivities at the Dog Park, which included competitions and fund-raising for RADD. Some of the competitions included prizes for look-alike dog/human, best costume and best trick.

Best In Show was awarded to Yablacka, whose human is Christina Alphin. Yablacka also won best in category for large dogs.

Spanky, whose human is Dan Spangler, won three categories — best costume, best trick and best medium dog — while Pat Morris’ Snuggles won best personality and best small dog. Erin Broadway’s Sophie won the look-alike contest.

Primary sponsors for the event included Bojangles’, shops in Herritage Landing, PetSense, Exchange Club and Woodmen Community Center/Lions Adventure Water Park.

In last year’s inaugural event, rain dampened the proceedings. However, Saturday’s beautiful springtime sunshine and temperatures brought a smile to RADD Director Judy Ellis’ face.

“The weather was gorgeous, finally, and the humans and dogs had a fabulous time at the Rotary Dog Park,” Ellis said. “We’re already looking forward to next year.”