The crowd cheered and the kids went wild as Porkchop, a French Bulldog and one of the many dogs used in the Woofjock show, dove through the jumps set up for the competition that was taking place. Closer to the comedic relief than an all star, Porkchop kept the crowd laughing.
Every year, the PawsWay down at Toronto’s waterfront hosts the annual Woofjock Canine All Stars to showcase the dogs’ talent, as well as provide activities for families and people of any age. From magic shows, face painting and museums to agility and obedience shows from the Woofjocks every hour and a half, there were many entertaining stations to observe; even if it was to sit in the coffee shop inside and just enjoy the day.
Event organizer, Tre Smith, said, ” we have [the event] every year, with fantastic stations for families, including Woofjocks.” Children were greeted by clowns handing out balloon animal pets and there was a time line museum of cats and dogs, starting as far back as the early 1900’s, that have done heroic acts in the past or saved the lives of those in danger. The event had many age varying activities that allowed the whole family to participate.
The PawsWay Family Day event was sponsored by Purina Dog Chow; “when a dog eats Dog Chow, it makes for a strong dog. A strong dog makes for a stronger family,” said Purina marketer, Lanka, when asked how she felt about her brand. Samples of the brand were given out to dogs or owners as they entered the function.
After walking through the museum and the balloon animals, the families and dogs entered the showroom where the Woofjocks entertained the crowd all day; starting with frisbee competitions and the jump-off in which Porkchop sabotaged it once again. Families were allowed to bring their own dogs from home; and many of them did.
Woofjocks captain, Karen Sanford, commented on her personal favourite Woofjock competition. “The Amazing Race is my favourite, it showcases talent, speed, weaves, high jump and comedy.” After each show, kids and parents were given the opportunity to be welcomed onto the floor for meet-and-greets with the all-star dogs and the trainers to ask questions or take pictures.
Following the dog shows were performances by the featured clowns and magicians to fill the time before the next show. They entertained the children and adult with animal themed jokes and magic tricks. The PawsWay centre got busier as the day went on and more dogs and children arrived. The last show of the day by Woofjocks featured Karen Sanford’s, Amazing Race competition, jump-offs and the dual-jump; where two dogs go over the jump together.
Laura Ω 