Madison County invites pet owners to Porter Park to show their skills

REXBURG –– Madison County is holding an event for pet owners and pet lovers on Friday. Locals can take their pets out for a competition and parade at the Pet in the Park event and fundraiser. The community is invited to go to Porter Park to watch the event. 
Beth Vanderwalker is the Madison County 250 ambassador. She has helped take part in recent America 250 events Rexburg has hosted this year. Rexburg is continuing the America 250 celebration through the year, with the Pet in the Park event.  
“It's an opportunity for families to come out to bring their pets,” Vanderwalker said. “We're going to do a pet parade, we're doing a best costume, an award for best trick, and even a look-alike with your owner contest. So just a fun day to come out to the park on a pretty day, bring your pet and maybe win an award.”  
The event will be free to attend, anyone wishing to participate in the parade and competition with their pet must pay to register. The competition includes best trick, best costume, and an owner lookalike contest. Prizes will be given to the winners of the competitions. All funds raised at the event will be donated to the Rexburg Animal Shelter. 
Vanderwalker is looking forward to even more events throughout the year that are part of Rexburg’s continuing America 250 celebration.  
“There's other really significant things that happen throughout the year, and we want all the community to be involved,” Vanderwalker said. “So, we're looking at doing events, we did events at the library, we're doing events with the city. this event brings family and pets out.”  
Everyone is invited to attend the Pet in the Park event to enjoy the parade and competition. Those participating are encouraged to be responsible pet owners by keeping their animals leashed and cleaning up after them at the park.  
“What we're really hoping is that even if you don't have a pet come out enjoy meet your neighbors get to see some fun animal tricks and just kind of join along and have a fun day at the park with us,” Vanderwalker said. 
The Pet in the Park event will be held Friday at Porter Park from 5 to 7 p.m. registration will be available at the event.