Dog Yoga Highlights New Activities At 11th Annual Spooky Pooch Parade

A free dog yoga session will be offered during the 11th Annual Spooky Pooch Parade on October 20.

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Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? When the 11th Annual Spooky Pooch Parade takes place on Saturday, October 20, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Kauffman Park, chances are it will feature plenty of downward dog pose. 

LakewoodAlive announces the addition of Doga – yoga for you and your dog – to the slate of activities offered during this year’s Spooky Pooch Parade. Hosted by Pink Lotus Yoga, a West End Lakewood studio, a free Doga session will take place from 1 to 1:45 p.m. within the outfield of Jimmie Fox Field at Kauffman Park, affording participants a unique opportunity to reap the many benefits of yoga while also enjoying the company of their canine companion.

Participation in Doga during the Spooky Pooch Parade does not require registration – simply show up and partake in any or all of the 45-minute session. Participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat and to ensure their dog is kept on a non-retractable leash. Costumes are optional.      

Sponsored by Discount Drug Mart, the Spooky Pooch Parade consists of a free-to-attend festival in Kauffman Park, a parade through Lakewood’s downtown business district on Detroit Avenue and an awards presentation. A favorite autumn tradition for Northeast Ohio dog lovers and their families, this community festival represents one of the only events of its kind in the region, providing a tail-wagging good time for canine and human guests alike.

Activities featured at the 11th Annual Spooky Pooch Parade, all of which are free to attendees but have limited availability on a first-come, first-served basis, include:

• Tricks for Treats: New this year, a delicious treat will be awarded to your dog based on the caliber of trick your pooch can perform. (1 p.m.)
• Doga: Enjoy a free yoga session with your four-legged friend (1 p.m.).
  • Please bring your own yoga mat if possible.
  • A non-retractable leash is required.
  • No registration necessary – simply show up and partake in any or all of the session.
• Musical Sit Contest: Test your dog’s obedience in this fun canine-oriented version of musical chairs. (1:15 p.m.)

In addition to these activities, Spooky Pooch Parade attendees can enjoy face-painting for children, music provided by a DJ, food vendors and a Dog Photo Booth courtesy of the Lakewood Women’s Club.

Pre-registration for the parade is $10 per dog and day-of registration is $15 per dog. Multiple dog discounts are available with pre-registration only. Humans are free. This community event takes place rain or shine, and proceeds from the parade benefit LakewoodAlive, a nonprofit community development organization. 

For more information and to register your dog, please visit LakewoodAlive.org/SpookyPooch.

The Spooky Pooch Parade is generously supported by the following sponsors:

Title Sponsor:
Discount Drug Mart

Top Dog Sponsor:
City of Lakewood

Dedicated Dog Sponsors:
The Dog Stop Plus | Inn The Doghouse | Milo & Me | Pet’s General Store | PetPeople

Poochy Sponsors:
Renewal by Andersen | Three Dog Bakery