FORT RUCKER, Ala. (April 26, 2012) -- From Golden Retrievers to bulldogs and even a few teacup varieties, a good number of dogs -- and their owners -- ventured out to the 7th Avenue event field April 20 for a few hours of animal-themed activity.
"I love the festival," said Stephanie Lomis, who attended Woofstock with her Family, a stroller and a Great Dane. "It's a great way to get the kid and the dog out of the house."
The annual event, hosted by Picerne Military Housing for the Families living on post, featured prizes, free food, live music, and a demonstration by the military police and military working dogs.
"It went really well," said Beth Martin, community management portfolio coordinator. "I was very impressed with the K-9 demonstration this year. They went above and beyond … they were awesome."
The MPs and their dogs worked through a series of basic commands and an obstacle course; then acted out a variety of real-life situations. Afterwards, the MPs allowed Families to take photos with the dogs, Martin said.
Though they weren't participating in any demonstrations, Deputies Joseph McKinney and David Asbill brought three dogs from the Houston County Sheriff's Department to the festival. Elvira, Jesse James and Forest took turns waiting in the truck and sitting with the deputies for the "kids to get slobbered on."
"She's one of the most adorable dogs ever," said Sonja Jordan, 15, of Elvira, adding that Woofstock was a great way to see other people's dogs and get in touch with the community.
During the festival, the Fort Rucker Veterinary Treatment Facility and the Fort Rucker stray facility gave away plastic pet food containers filled with dog treats, grooming gloves, a pet bandana and more, according to Lisa Moore with the stray facility.
Moore also brought two small dogs, Pepper and Peaches, to the event so people could see a few of the animals available for adoption at the facility.
"We just really thank all our vendors for coming out because it's their support that really makes these events special for our Families," said Brandon Masters, communications manager.
According to Masters, Picerne Military Housing's next big event for the Families living on post will be the pool parties June 1.
We try to "provide different activities for our Families to come out and just enhance their quality of life while they are here," he said.
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