That’s right, Panic Manual has literally gone to the dogs and as of Saturday I’m still hypnotized by all the prancing pooches that were paraded around by their Pet Parents.
I’m told by girlfriend that the term “Pet Parents” is a nicer more politically correct way of explaining those owners that dye the fur of their Shih-Tzus, paint the nails of their Dobermans, or push their pair of Chihuahuas around in a baby carriage. Yes, they were all out in full force at the Direct Energy Centre for the third annual Winter Woofstock on Saturday. My girlfriend herself is the owner of a bulldog but it must be noted that although she’d much prefer to snuggle with her dog than with me, she doesn’t hold the same odd characteristics that Pet Parents hold so dear to their furry little hearts.
Pet Parents:
Their obsession with their dogs wasn’t too much of a surprise when you see the multitude of products being marketed to them. Everything from gourmet dog treats, to doggy sunglasses, to diamond-studded monogrammed collars were all exhibited by vendors.The most entertaining parts of the afternoon were several events and contests that encapsulated all that defines the modern-day mutt. It varied from racing weiner dogs, or watching a class on how to cook canine cupcakes, or why not judge the Ms and Mr Canine Canada Contest? In between there were several fashion shows, and of course, a stupid dog trick contest. Yes, there was something for everyone.
Our favourite part of the afternoon had to be the reactions of the dogs in attendance. We estimated that approximately 90% of attendees brought their dogs and for the most part, they were extremely well-behaved. Sure, there was the random bark heard, one attempted humping, and a few of them took advantage of the pine trees set up as decorations to relieve themselves, but for the rest they were clearly in doggy heaven. For every second that these particular dogs were there it just kept getting better. It was like a diabetic fat kid in a candy store. This was clearly a place for Pet Parents to show off their “children” and justify dressing up their dog in a pink ballet tutu but it was also heart-warming to see how happy these doggies were.