Thousands of dogs head to Tri-Cities for packed weekend of 4 dog shows, events

Bob Brawdy
·1 min read

There will be plenty of “puppy love” on display this weekend in the east end of Columbia Park in Kennewick.

Dog lovers from across the United States and Canada have gathered for the 77th annual Tri-City Cluster of dog shows sponsored by the Walla Walla and Richland Kennel Clubs.

More than 800 participants are signed up to show nearly 4,000 AKC registered canines during the four-day event.

Canine enthusiasts looking for more fast-paced action can also watch a performance competition called Fast CAT - which stands for Coursing Ability Test.

Dogs, whether purebred or mixed breed, are timed in a 100-yard dash while chasing a lure.

A dog leaves the starting area chasing a lure during the Fast CAT 100-yard dash competition in Columbia Park during the Tri-Cities Cluster of dog shows. The lure is pulled down the chute by a string.
A dog leaves the starting area chasing a lure during the Fast CAT 100-yard dash competition in Columbia Park during the Tri-Cities Cluster of dog shows. The lure is pulled down the chute by a string.

If a dog is really fast, it might earn bragging rights if their name makes the list of top 20 fastest dogs by breed.

Registration for the popular competition, where some breeds are capable of close to 40 mph, closed in early September because capacity limits were reached.

The shows, which end on Sunday, run from 8 a.m to 5 p.m. each day.

Vendors for canine snacks and supplies and food trucks are available on site.

Parking and admission are free.

Amanda Bauer has the attention of her Boxer named Lou and show judge Bruce Schwartz Friday morning at the Tri-City Cluster dog shows in Columbia Park in Kennewick. Bauer and Lou were awarded two best of breeds ribbons by Schwartz. The event is put on by the Walla Walla and Richland Kennel Clubs.
Amanda Bauer has the attention of her Boxer named Lou and show judge Bruce Schwartz Friday morning at the Tri-City Cluster dog shows in Columbia Park in Kennewick. Bauer and Lou were awarded two best of breeds ribbons by Schwartz. The event is put on by the Walla Walla and Richland Kennel Clubs.

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