'Dog Days of Summer' are Here

It's the Dog Days of Summer - and we're not just talking about the weather!

The annual Dog Days of Summer kicks off today in Cook Park and runs through July 8. Not only can you bring your dogs downtown, but your dogs can also compete to win the title of "Libertyville's Big Air Dog."

Here's a look at what's taking place during this four-day event, courtesy of MainStreet Libertyville and Pampered Pup'z:

July 5:
Noon to 2 p.m.  Local dogs practice jumping session, Xtreme Dog Park (PNC Bank parking lot)
2:30 to 4 p.m.  Wave one tryouts for local jumping competition
4 to 6 p.m.       Wave two tryouts for local competition

July 6:
Noon to 6 p.m.  The official DockDogs competition begins with waves one and two.
6 p.m.              Opening ceremonies, where Mayor Terry Weppler will throw the first ball, followed by the local competition for Libertyville's Big Air Dog
7 to 10 p.m.      First Friday and "Rock in Cook Park"

July 7:
9 to 5 p.m.       DockDogs competition, waves three through five, and Xtreme Vertical waves one and two, in the Xtreme Dog Park
Events in Cook Park:
9 to 5              Over 40 booths - Veterinarians, Rescue Groups, Caricature Artists, Photos, Food and other retail merchants
Noon               Lake County Sheriff K-9 Demo
1                     Doggie Fashion Show
1:30                Pet Parade
2                     Family/Pup Games
2:30                Frisbee Dogs
3                     Garage Bands
Downtown events:
9 to 5              Ye Olde Downtown Treasure Hunt, Doggie Coupon Walk and Dog-friendly shopping and dining

July 8:
9 to 5 p.m.       Finals of the "Road to the National Championship" competition, Xtreme Dog Park
Events in Cook Park:
9 to 5              Over 40 booths - Veterinarians, Rescue Groups, Caricature Artists, Photos, Food and other retail merchants
9 to 11            Breakfast in the Park with your Pup
10                   3K-K9 North Shore Pro
11                   Pet Blessing Ceremony - St. Lawrence Episcopal Church
Noon               Exercise with your Pup
1                     Robin's Dog Stars
2                     Garage Bands
Downtown events:
9 to 5              Ye Olde Downtown Treasure Hunt, Doggie Coupon Walk and Dog-friendly shopping and dining

- Pampered Pup'z provided this information.