Who Let The Dogs... In? Pucks and Paws With Bridgeport Islanders A Hit Off The Ice
BRIDGEPORT — The concourse and stands at Total Mortgage Arena were full of furry fans as the Bridgeport Islanders blanked the Springfield Thunderbirds 4-0 on February 1. There was plenty of intense action on the ice, but the biggest hits at this game did not involve NHL prospects but rather four-legged treat-eating hopefuls.
Fans got to meet, and pet (and get licked by), various breeds of adoptable pooches, including many from Adopt-A-Dog. The stands had everything from lap dogs — some letting out occasional barks during the game — to large breeds, and everything in between. Most dogs were content people watching and hanging out under or on their owners’ seats, but some were clearly interested in the players moving around on the ice.
The arena music for this game featured some appropriate songs such as Baha Men’s turn-of-the-century tune “Who Let the Dogs Out?” and Patti Page’s 1950s hit “How Much Is That Doggie In The Window.”
There was an English and French bulldog tandem (Debo and Boogie Smalls). There were toy poodles, a Maltipoo (Maltese-poodle mix), a beagle, mutts — something for everyone. Bridgeport Islanders team dog Biscuit, a golden retriever in training with Firefly Meadow Service Dogs, participated in the ceremonial puck drop.
Thor, a golden retriever from The Exceptional Sidekick Service Dogs, was on hand with owner Scott Weiss, greeting fans of all ages. Thor is recognizable from having read with patrons at area libraries, including Cyrenius H. Booth Library. Thor also visits schools and Yale Children’s Hospital.
The puppies and adult canines all went home, likely as worn out as the players, dreaming of chasing sticks (perhaps hockey sticks) and pucks instead of balls.
As for the Islanders, their schedule includes a home game Saturday, February 14 vs Providence at 5 pm. For information, visit bridgeportislanders.com.
Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.
