Maricopa goes to the dogs for first annual Mutt March

Maricopa literally went to the dogs Sunday in a meet and greet for canines and their owners. Maricopa’s first annual Mutt March provided dogs the opportunity to sniff and wag at each other on a beautiful day at Maricopa Meadows – while their owners shared dog stories and histories.

Bud (left) and Josh Castro await the beginning of the first annual Mutt March.

Pooches of all sizes and shapes were out for the day. John and Cathy Heieie had two of the largest dogs in attendance. Bambi, their two-year-old, black Great Dane weighs about 100 pounds, but her “brother” Chunk, a Great Dane-mastiff mix, weighs in at 170 pounds, – and he’s only nine months old!

Cathy and John Heieie with Bambi (left) and Chunk.

In addition to the 2.5-kilometer and .25-kilometer “marches,” canines and civilians had the opportunity to see demonstrations by local dog groups, find out about pet rescue efforts in this area and learn helpful information about pet health, nutrition and licensing.

Toby and his master John Kempf cross the finish line after completing the 2.5 kilometer Mutt March.

Wrigley was first to cross the finish line with his family, Jose and Andrea Albanil and baby Julian, in tow.

Various contests were part of the event, including “Pet Star,” “Dog-Owner Look-a-like,” “Dress Up Your Dog” and leash decorating for children ages 12 and under.

These Mutt Marchers were looking pretty in pink.

This first Mutt March, organized by Kristen Carr, Kimberly Diedrich, Sarah Jones, their all-volunteer committee of concerned dog lovers and various sponsors, was designed as a fundraiser for the building, amenities and maintenance of the city’s first off-leash dog park. Director Marty McDonald and the Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department are currently studying various options for a dog park, which should be completed within the next two years. After the park is built, annual Mutt Marches will raise funds for its expenses.