Bangor’s 3rd Downtown Dog Day caters to canines and companions

BANGOR – Canines can cavort to their hearts’ delight Saturday, when the city sets out the water dishes for its third annual Downtown Dog Day.

Their human companions are invited, too, according to Sally Bates, a city development officer who has been involved in planning the event produced by Bangor Center Corp. since its inception.

This year’s lineup runs from 10 a.m. through 11 p.m.

On Dog Day, downtown businesses will hold special sales, and local groups will present events and activities relating to dogs, ranging from a blessing of the dogs and pet psychic readings, spa treatments, portrait sittings and a fashion show. There also will be dog adoption opportunities from shelters and rescue leagues, booths featuring pet products and educational materials, police dog demonstrations and a Frisbee disc challenge.

In addition, first lady Karen Baldacci will speak about programs in which dogs help children improve their reading, and Bangor Daily News columnist Renee Ordway will talk about the challenges and joys of adopting shelter dogs with special needs.

A dance at the Union Street Brick Church will cap off this year’s edition of Dog Day.

Following is the program of activities, listed by type:

. Guest speakers: Maine Discovery Museum, use Pickering Square entrance. Karen Baldacci, 10 a.m., dogs and children’s literacy; Renee Ordway, 11 a.m., adopting special-needs dogs.

. Products and information: Pickering Square, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Epic Sports, boating and traveling with dogs; Downeast Dog News, meet the publisher; Dogn I Apparel; Cozy Cat (and Dog) Designs; U.S. Cellular, cell phones and canines; Tail Waggin Training Center, learn about service dogs.

. Dogs working hard and playing hard: Bangor Humane Society, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., near Aubuchon Hardware, Penobscot Plaza, meet dogs available for adoption; dog demonstrations, 10 a.m.-noon, corner of Railroad and Main streets, police dog demonstrations, spaniels, Frisbee fun, rally demo.

. Doggie fashion show, registration noon-1 p.m., show 1-2 p.m., Pickering Square.

. Pamper your pooch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Pickering Square, doggie manicures, beauty parlor.

. Blessing of the dogs, Franciscan Friars, noon, Pickering Square; Rev. Lee Witting, 2 p.m., corner of Union and Main streets.

. Understanding your dog’s mind, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Pickering Square. Tellington training method, pet psychic readings.

. More about dogs, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., West Market Square. Penobscot Kennel Club, Greyhound Rescue League, Second Chance Boxer Rescue, Save Our Strays.

. Canine memorial wall photo exhibit, Hannibal Hamlin Park, between State and Central streets.

. Portrait sessions, Lumiere Photographic Studio, 58 Main St.

. Dog Day Dance, 8-11 p.m., Union Street Brick Church.

. Other: retail specials throughout downtown, live music and raffle to benefit Bangor Human Society at Sea Dog Brewing Co., 26 Front St.

For more information, visit www.downtownbangor.com.