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Linda Mar Beach, San Francisco (Global)_With fur flying, ears flapping and tails wagging, pooches from across the United States vied for coveted titles at the World Dog Surfing Championships held at Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, San Francisco. It was truly a sight to behold as dogs of all shapes and sizes came bounding onto the beach with their owners, impatiently looking at the waves until they were allowed to run into the surf and jump on their boards.
There were big dogs and little dogs, long dogs and short dogs, furry dogs and sleek dogs – all donning wetsuits and goggles to catch the waves. Solo surfers were separated into the various size categories while other categories including the tandem human-dog surf and the best dog-dog ride also making a splash.
The judging criteria evaluated the length of the ride and surfing style. A portion of the proceedings went towards non-profits and charities involved in canine, surfing and environmental projects. Awards were presented to the top three in each category.
The full day canine-activity inspired event included a Pet Wellness Fair, a pet fashion show featuring some chic doggy beach style and a mobile pet adoption which allowed pet lovers to find their own fur baby. For those canines who are not too fond of jumping into the waves but came along to support their four-legged friends, a fetching competition gave them something to look forward to. Yappy Hour capped the activity-filled day.
Kevin Reed is the man who started it all off with his book, ‘The Dog’s Guide to Surfing’ published in 2004. After the book was published, in 2006, he organized the first championship – Loew’s Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition held near San Diego. Since then, doggies have been riding the waves and getting rewarded for it with a trophy or two. The event started by Reed is now an international phenomenon with dog surfing championships held in California, Florida, Australia and the UK.
Reed and subsequently everyone involved in the championships have always believed that surfing canines are unique and develop extraordinary intuition, standing apart from other dogs. These dogs are considered ‘amphibious canines’.
