One of the largest dog festivals in the country takes place Saturday, September 18th at William Street Park in downtown San Jose. Grab the leash and lead the pack to experience the world of dog lovers at its best.

Bark in the Park is a fundraising event hosted by the Naglee Park neighborhood’s Campus Community Association and promises to be a real treat for dogs and humans alike.

Families and Fido are sure to be entertained with non-stop activities throughout the day including dog rallies, “Mutts in Motion” fly ball clinics, pet show contests, and loads of vendor goodies. The jam-packed event touts 90 different vendors showcasing products such as canine couture, veterinarian services, doggie daycare, natural dog foods and pet spas.

If that doesn’t get your dog’s tail into full wag mode, a new contest this year called “Happy Tail Wagging” is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Morning news anchor George Sampson from 1590 KLIV will be wagging his tongue as master of ceremonies.

What started out as a neighborhood social gathering 14 years ago for a Fourth of July celebration has now exploded into what has become one of the world’s largest dog festivals with attendance reaching 15,000 bipeds and 3,700 four-legged best friends. Now that’s a lot of pawprints.

Ken Podgorsek, chairman of the event, stated that they are grateful to local businesses like Canidiae All Natural Pet Food and Sam’s Downtown Feed and Pet Supply for being proud sponsors of Bark in the Park.

The theme for this year’s event is “Dogs take the Lead”.  All proceeds benefit the Humane Society Silicon Valley, San Jose Animal Care Center and the Campus Community Association. Admission is free but a $5.00 donation is suggested. Doesn’t your best friend deserve it?