Praising Pups

A Day of Fun and Community at Woofstock

This Saturday, the focus will be on our four-legged friends as the Sequoia Humane Society hosts its annual fundraiser, “Woofstock,” from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Halvorsen Park along Waterfront Drive in Eureka. The event is a cherished tradition that brings together volunteers, supporters, and a variety of friendly dogs in a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

“Woofstock is a key part of our community involvement. It’s our largest summer fundraiser, which brings volunteers, supporters and lots of friendly dogs together in a lively, fun environment. It also raises awareness of homeless pets and connects people with our mission and with our animals,” said Tiffany Elizabeth, office manager for Sequoia Humane Society.

The day promises an array of activities designed to entertain both humans and their canine companions. There will be opportunities for pups to play, including an agility course, bobbing for treats, a lure course, and a chill-out zone. Additional highlights include microchipping services, a raffle, and a demonstration by the Eureka Police Department K9 unit.

Canine contests will take place in the early afternoon, featuring events like pet/owner look-alike, best wag, and more. These contests are a great way for participants to showcase their pets and enjoy some friendly competition.

“We’ve got a contest showcase to let everyone show off a little. One of the contests is ‘Best Costume’ and the idea that folks are planning ahead and excited enough to get their pups all dressed up is just really cool. The lure course is a dog favorite, too. And for the first time ever, we have the EPD K9 unit doing a presentation at 12:30 p.m. with some of the smartest and best-trained dogs in town,” Elizabeth said.

Live music will add to the festive atmosphere throughout the event. Bands such as NightHawk, SoHum Girls, and Almost Dangerous will perform at different times, providing entertainment for all ages. Food vendors will offer a variety of options, including hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, and beverages.

“Woofstock blends pets, music, community and fun in a way that appeals to so many. Families come for games or face painting. Dogs enjoy activities like the lure course and meeting lots of other pups. And the live music creates a festival energy that people love. Plus, people know they’ll see volunteers and adopters they’ve met before, so there’s a feeling of belonging,” Elizabeth said.

Admission to “Woofstock” is $10 at the gate or $20 for families of four ($5 per additional person). Kids under 2 will be admitted for no charge. Leashed, friendly dogs are admitted for free, too. (No retractable leashes.)

“The proceeds go directly toward the care of animals in our shelter. That includes medical care, spaying, neutering, vaccines, microchips, as well as behavioral training and enrichment for pets who may be stressed or recovering. In addition, it supports facility improvements, cleaning supplies, pet food and all the hard work that goes into the transition these pets are going through as they find their forever homes,” Elizabeth said.

The nonprofit Sequoia Humane Society is a no-kill shelter located at 6073 Loma Ave., Eureka. Plenty of cats and dogs of all ages are currently seeking their forever homes.

“There’s Pan Dulce, a 3-year-old curly brown acrobat, who could teach a Care Bear how to snuggle. Even his whiskers are curly; it’s ridiculous,” said Elizabeth of the 11-pound spaniel mix pup.

“Odie,” she said, “is a big, friendly 6-year-old with different colored eyes.” (He’s a 75-pound German shepherd mix.)

Elizabeth added, “And don’t forget the little gray kitten Han Solo, who is hiding the wisdom of a millennium-old redwood under his mysterious antics and baby-cat energy. To anyone who’s ever told him he’s the cutest, he’s just given a sage look, as if to say, ‘I know.’”