Four Legged Surfers

Image taken from http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/surfs-dogs-hit-waves-surf-competition/story?id=34015145

The “Surf City Surf Dog” competition (which was back for the seventh year running) took place on last weekend, at Huntington Beach, California. The event gave the 65 attending dogs the chance to show off their swell surfboarding skills—to a supportive cheering crowd of 2500 fans no less.  For the heats, the dogs competed in four categories—according to their weight and size—and were judged based on their various surfing skills, such as duration of surfs, and confidence shown while riding their boards. All Fidos could ride the waves solo, in pairs or with their owners. Our favourite category was when the dogs teamed up to compete in pairs. After all, it’s always more fun lapping up the sun, sweat and sun with a buddy by your side.

The weekend waves were mostly low tide, with the exception of the morning heats where waters were relatively choppy, causing some pooches to be thrown overboard. To ensure the safety of all furry pals, they each wore neon life jackets, and Huntington Beach lifeguards were on standby to rescue dogs that lost their balance.

On top of the surfing competition, there was a red carpet showcase that came complete with a “puppyrazzi” costume contest, as well as “Yappy-Hour” doggie-themed drinks. According to event producer, Lisa Scolman, the number of furry participants has doubled since the inauguration of the event. However, surfing may not be suitable for every dog and owners shouldn’t coerce their furkid to take up surfing. She elaborates, “You can see when it is in the eyes and the face of the dogs that love it, and they bark to get back out there,” Scolman said.

Do you think your furkid is up to the challenge? For all you know, this may just be the newest activity for you and your furkid to bond over! 

Video taken from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3251921/Surf-s-pup-Pets-waves-alongside-owners-annual-dog-surfing-contest-California.html