Barking space: Dog-day afternoon at fairgrounds

By JIM LUKSIC

GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Attendees at the annual Barkfest on Saturday, May 17, at the fairgrounds had their own reasons for being there.

Some of the dog lovers wanted fresh air, sunshine and exercise; others, such as vendors, were peddling their wares.

But the most common answer from those who were asked why they braved the sweltering heat: “We love dogs.”

The four-hour affair included adoptions on site and opportunities to give donations for rescue organizations.

One of those conducting a labor of love Saturday was pet photographer Brooke Stacey, of St. Augustine, who had also participated in Jacksonville's Barkfest.

“It was a lot of fun, so I had to be here,” said Stacey, who has been shooting professionally for 15 years.

Not far down the linear trail of tents and booths stood Amanda Tullos, an administrator for Bad to the Bone Pet Care.

“We love animals and want to support the community,” was her explanation for pitching in.

Strolling down the grassy central path was Fruit Cove's Ellen McClure, with her pair of mini-Aussies in tow. “I have a friend working at a booth, and we both love dogs.”

Meanwhile, at the far end of the T-bone layout, was a middle-aged gentleman named Daniel poised near a handful of food trucks. He described his purpose as “Walking around, having fun” while keeping an eye on his four-legged best friends, Navy and Red.

Vendors consisted of artists and sales representatives for a raft of products including treats for dogs. Erin, a Middleburg-based veterinarian technician, said she creates dog-related arts and crafts (pillows, drink coasters, wooden signs and so forth) in her “spare time.” 

Booming from distant speakers was Baha Men's appropriate song “Who Let the Dogs Out” — still resonating after a quarter-century.