– By Anna Cooke Photography by Laura Allen Studios.
E
Belle of the Ball.
Each year, the City of Largo Parks and Recreation Department in Pinellas County, holds an end of the swim season event. Soggy Doggy Day marks the closing of the Highland Family Aquatic Center for the year. It’s the one day dogs are allowed in the pool, and humans are not. The theme of the September 8 event was Circus, and dogs were encouraged to dress accordingly for the cos- tume contest, one of the many events held throughout the day. Lucy, the Labrador Retriever who owns her human Laura
Allen, has attended Soggy Doggy Day every year for the last two
years.This year was her third outing, and she was no less excited; like a child who loves going to Disney World, over and over again. The thrill of the visit never wanes. As Laura drives down the road that leads up to the Aquatic
Center, before even seeing the other dogs or the pool, Lucy is already jumping around in the car. And when the gates to the pool are opened, she is ready for some serious play time. She takes off with the other dogs, barely looking back at Laura. But every once in awhile, Lucy looks up and around for Laura, just to make sure. She gives Laura a reassuring smile, and goes back to playing.
Stylin’ and Smilin’ – Lucy may not have the technique of a champion swimmer, but her megawatt smile sure does have star power.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? After two hours of playtime, Lucy inspects the water for a ball to determine how much effort is needed to go in after it.
The Big Tease. This is how Lucy engages Oliver to chase her. Oliver and his human, drive from South Tampa to Largo each year for Soggy Doggy Day. 26 THE NEW BARKER
www.TheNewBarker.com
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