MARYSVILLE — A day in the summer sun at the Strawberry Fields For Rover Off-Leash Dog Park made for some “hot dogs” at the eighth annual Poochapalooza by the Marysville Dog Owners Group July 12.

M-DOG President Leslie Buell reported that more than 50 vendors and roughly 3,000 attendees turned out. A cool-down tent was set up behind the park’s gazebo for pooches and their owners alike.

“If there was any year that have that ready, this was it,” said Buell, who deemed it a “record hot” day for the event, and acknowledged that it was probably too warm for the pet costume contest and wiener dog contest to be held in the afternoon. “Our attendance was maybe only slightly less than last year’s, but the folks who showed up didn’t stick around as long, because their dogs got too hot.”

Buell nonetheless characterized this year as a success, citing the number of dogs that were adopted out by Bulldog Haven NW that day, as well as the money that was raised for Strawberry Fields’ agility course.

“This is always our major fundraiser of the year for the park,” Buell said, as she explained that M-DOG had already purchased two pieces of agility equipment for the park, and that Poochapalooza would allow them to buy three more. “We hope to get them installed by the end of the summer.

“Whether you’re looking to train your dog or just give him a little exercise, this equipment is adjustable and safe,” she added.