Applications are now being taken for Ocean City’s annual “Dog of the Year” Contest.
If you believe your dog is special, this contest is for you. The event benefits the Ocean City Dog Park at 45th Street and Haven Avenue.
The contest is limited to 12 entries. The finalists are selected from the initial applications. Completed applications must include a $20 fee and a photo of the nominated dog. The entry fee benefits the Ocean City Dog Park and is not refundable. Best friends are requested to include a written summary of why they believe their pet should be chosen as a finalist.
All applications must be submitted by June 15. The contest runs from July 20 to Sept. 22 Finalists will be required to have an Ocean City business sponsor who will be asked donate $100 to support the dog park.
During the contest time, photos of the 12 finalists will be featured on display panels on the Boardwalk, in the downtown and at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave. The public will be able to vote for its favorite by money donations at these locations and at sponsor businesses.
Nominated canines must be at least six months old, be current in all inoculations and licensed in their communities. The dog of the year winner and runners-up will be asked to attend certain city dog-related events throughout the year of their reign.
The crowning of the Dog of the Year will be held at the Ocean City Bayside Center, 520 Bay Ave., at noon on Sat., Nov. 1. There will also be a Halloween costume contest for all dogs on the site following the crowning ceremony. Dog of the Year Calendars, T Shirts and other products will be for sale to benefit the Dog Park. The crowning event is free. The public and pooches are invited.
Donations or contributions to the OCDP, a 501c3 organization, are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Dog of the Year applications are available at the City Hall Information Center located on the ground floor, Ninth Street and Asbury Ave., seven days a week.
Call 484-680-4469 for more information.
— News release from the City of Ocean City
