By CONNIE SWAIM
Indiana Correspondent

LEBANON, Ind. — From bloodhounds to flying dogs, the first ever Paw Prints Dog Event at the Farm World Expo, will help visitors beat the dog days of summer.

On Saturday, Sept. 6, the Expo will definitely go to the dogs … and dog owners and dog lovers. A day full of activities ranging from fun to educational is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Boone County Fairgrounds.

The Indy Mantrailing K9 Search and Rescue Unit will bring its bloodhounds and conduct mock searches as well as provide information on how to keep children safe. While the bloodhounds will have their noses to the ground, world champion dogs will take to the air. The Indy Dog and Disc Club will host three performances throughout the day. The dogs will catch flying discs as well as perform amazing feats of aerial acrobatics.

For visitors who have problems with Fido jumping on people or pulling hard on the leash during a walk, the trainers at Canines in Action will offer practical and easy-to-implement training tips throughout the day.

CIA owner Laura Baugh said old dogs can indeed learn new tricks. No matter how old the dog is, it can still become a better canine companion.

Nearly all children love dogs, so Adam Garrett, volunteer coordinator for Indianapolis Animal Care and Control, will provide helpful tips on how to safely approach a strange dog. Children will also be taught the proper way to care for their own canine companion.

While many people just have fun with their dogs, there are numerous dogs who have jobs. Dogs help many people lead richer, fuller lives by providing assistance with sight, sound and even doing the heavy lifting.

Members of Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) will be on hand to demonstrate how they help by raising puppies who will grow up to be service dogs. Last year CCI placed 200 dogs with people who have a disability.

For those looking for a new friend, several animal rescue organizations will have dogs available for adoption at the Expo. There will be demonstrations of other activities, such as agility and obedience events.

Vendors with dog-related items and food products will sell during the day.

While many people love to take their own dog with them to events, please consider if the dog would be happy attending. There will be thousands of people visiting the Expo as well as numerous dogs.
Those who wish to see the farm-related exhibits and exhibitors will need to have a plan for making sure the dog is safe during the show. Remember, even on moderately cool days, a dog can die within minutes in a locked car even with the windows cracked. So, leaving a dog in a vehicle is not an option.

For those who choose to bring a dog, it must be current on vaccinations, always on a leash and wearing identification tags on its collar.

Retractable leashes will not be permitted. Also, don’t forget to bring along bags to clean up after the dog as well as its water bowl and fresh water.