Time To Show Off Your Canine — Dog Show Set For September 15

Bethlehem — On Saturday, September 15, from 1 to 4 pm, Connecticut Landmarks’ Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden will present the 11th Annual Dog Show. In honor of Caroline Ferriday’s beloved dogs Lucky and Dandy, the event will celebrate dogs of all shapes, sizes, and colors, and will be emceed by Scott Wands of the Connecticut Humanities Council. Prizes will be awarded by judges who get to know winning specialties of each dog in a wide variety of categories such as best kisser, longest nose, classiest, best jumper, and fluffiest.

The event includes a multitude of canine-related activities, demonstrations, and visits from pet-friendly organizations; it is a great opportunity for a pet to socialize with other dogs. Bellamy-Ferriday guide Jennifer Moncuse will appear in period attire as Caroline Ferriday, and will be escorted by her German shepherd Lucky.

Dogs must be registered in advance, up-to-date on their shots, and be on a leash. Stray spectators are also welcome; call 203-266-7596 for a registration form. The cost is $8 per dog (one owner free), $8 for adults without a dog, $5 for members, or $20 for an entire family.

Dog Show activities will include agility and training demonstrations by Jack Crann of Peace of Mind Canine in Bethlehem, crafts for kids, and a scavenger hunt that winds through the beautiful landscape to test participants’ knowledge about dog breeds. Both dogs and kids can try the obstacle course. Regap Dog Rescue volunteers will be on site.

A limited number of dogs may also preregister to participate in the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen Program, which promotes responsible dog ownership and basic training for dogs. All dogs who pass the ten-step CGC test, given by a CGC evaluator, receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. Pure bred and mixed bread dogs are eligible. Guests may also enjoy Bethlehem musician and songwriter Doug Mahard, who will be performing acoustic Americana guitar music. The event will conclude with the award ceremony and pet parade.

The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden, at 9 Main Street North, is open May 1 through October 10. For September and October, hours are 11 am to 4 pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus Columbus Day. Admission is $7 for adults; $6 for students, teachers and seniors; $4 for children age 6–18; children under 6 and Connecticut Landmarks’ members are free. Families, two adults with children, are $15; groups of ten or more are $5 each.

For school groups and special curriculum-based programming, to reserve tours for groups of ten or more, or to rent the facility, call the Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden at 203-266-7596.