Dog Day Downtown returns to Middletown for the seventh year

Kara passed away on November 8, 2020. The first “Kara’s Mutt Strutt” 5K was held on Kara’s birthday April 24. Kara was originally from New York and her family always comes to town to support the events.

Dog Day Downtown will include free treat stops, a canine talent show, grooming, a DJ, an “after party” and more. The Middletown Police Department will be presenting a K-9 demonstration at 7 p.m. at Swallen’s Park (in the green space behind the Pendleton Art Center Middletown.) Most of the activity will be in and around Governor’s Square and the stands will be along Broad Street towards Manchester.

“It’s still a huge draw to our downtown area because people love their dogs and they love bringing them downtown. Many local businesses will have treat stations and treats for all dogs, and there will have four animal rescue organizations on hand, in case anyone wants to add to their family,” Glaser-Jones said.

There will be several contests throughout the evening, including a “Best Bark” contest at 5:45 p.m., a “Show Us Your Talent” contest at 6 p.m., and a “Peanut Butter Eating” contest at 7:30 p.m. at Governor’s Square . Entrants must register for contests the night of the event at the DMI tent prior to the start of each contest.

“It’s a great community event that brings everyone together to show off their puppies, and everyone has a great time,” Glaser-Jones said. “Our downtown businesses are always looking forward to it and they have lots of activity going on. So it’s a fun family night out.

There will also be free nail clippings by Animal Arts Academy, micro chipping and a variety of participating vendors to visit. There will be a DJ playing music and a limited number of goodie bags will be available for DMI tent attendees. Giveaways will include dog bandanas, reflective tags, dog bones and more.

White Dog Distilling Co & Bourbon Bar and DC Roadhouse will host a dog-friendly “after party,” to be held in the green space between White Dog and DC Roadhouse, starting at 8 p.m. with a DJ and karaoke.

Participating animal rescues will include PAWS Adoption Center, All Paws Matter, No Tails About It Corgi Rescue and Brave Breed Rescue, Inc. There will also be an onsite face artist for the children.

“Dog Days and Hocus Pocus were created by our beloved friend, Kara Goheen. She wanted to get people exploring downtown businesses to provide family fun events or themed events that included a passport to visit downtown businesses. Kara has worked diligently with Downtown Middletown Inc. (DMI) to help promote and create fun for downtown over the past few years,” said Jamie Murphy, volunteer for the downtown event and co-owner.

Goheen was heavily involved with Downtown Middletown, Inc. A few events were considered “her babies”, including Dog Day Downtown and Hocus Pocus. These are two events that she really enjoyed planning, Murphy explained.

“Kara passed away unexpectedly in 2020 and it was devastating to many of us. She was a great friend to many. We spent countless hours volunteering together, so events are not as exciting without her. I don’t know if Mica and I will ever get over her loss. She was special. Few people gave 1000% like Kara did,” Murphy said.

The event is sponsored by Downtown Middletown, Inc., Middletown Community Foundation, Kara Goheen Friends and Furball Fund and Balloon Dog Events.


How to get there

What: Dog day downtown

When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday

Where: Downtown Middletown

Cost: Free. Items are available for purchase. Free treats will also be available for puppies.

More information: www.downtownmiddletown.org. Friendly, vaccinated and leashed dogs are welcome.

About Chuck Keeton

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