The expression, “Every dog has its day,” came true for about 225 dogs last Saturday at Goochland Baptist Church’s Dogs Day event.

About 600 people attended the festival of ‘Fun for Fido and the Whole Family.’

“We wanted to reach out to our community with something our community cares about,” said Dean Frazeur, pastor of Goochland Baptist Church.  “Our dogs are more than animals, they’re our companions.  We thought this would be a great way to meet our community, love our community as we love these creatures that God created.”

Visitors to Dogs Day received a goody bag that contained dog care guides for owners and a special treat for their four legged companions. 

The Trongone Band, a popular local group, entertained the crowd by playing Southern rock music. 

DoodyCalls, PetSmart, and Aussie Pet Mobile were among the 21 vendors that attended the event, offering visitors a wide range of services and products related to dog care. 

Also on display were demonstrations from police dogs, service dogs and dogs involved in search and rescue.

One of the most popular events at Dogs Day was the “blessing of the dogs.”  Pastor Dean led the crowd in a responsive reading centered on loving and nurturing animals. 

Frazeur, assisted by Rev. Adam Phlegar, Youth Pastor at Goochland Baptist Church, completed the blessing by laying a hand on each dog as they passed by. 

The Animal Adoption Rescue Foundation(AARF) attended Dogs Day and brought rescue dogs that were available for adoption.  AARF is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization that began its mission to rescue dogs and puppies in 1993. 

Cindy Chiles-Smith, President of AARF, discussed the important elements of the adoption process. 

“It is very important to find the right match,” said Chiles-Smith.  “That’s why we do an application.  We screen it, go over it and make sure it’s a good match for the whole family.” 

Since AARF began, the organization has saved about 10,000 lives.

And it is still going strong:  Six dogs found loving homes during the Dogs Day event.

Dean Frazeur’s wife Susan discussed her three rescued dogs. 

“It has changed our whole way of thinking,” said Susan.  “These dogs have not had a chance at a happy life, and if we can give them a few short years, or many years, of happiness and love then that makes the whole thing worth while.” 

The Frazeurs own two rescued German Shepherds and a miniature Pincher.

Frazeur said he considered the event a success.

“Our goals were to meet people and let them know that someone cares about them,” said Frazeur.  “God loves them and God loves their dogs.  We had zero dog fights and even the people got along well, too!” 

Article contributed by Paul Irvin