I have been spending a lot of time in San Diego lately -- a city I really love and I want to share an event on my calendar that's going to be extra special. Make a note of Wednesday July 27th to celebrate the Dog Days of Summer when dogs are invited to Petco Park for a baseball game.

But this year, is going to be extra special because  the Guinness Book of World Records officials will be present as the organizers attempt to set a world record  for most dogs at a professional sporting event. The record setting attempt will take place during the game when the San Diego Padres take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. To help encourage attendance of pets and their parents, tickets will be free of charge to accepted applicants courtesy of PETCO.  Last year's sellout event was open to 500 dogs. However, this year the event has been expanded to allow up to 750 dogs to participate and become part of history. 

Dogs will also have the opportunity to participate in a pre-game "tail" gate party and an on-field pet parade, where prizes will be awarded to costumed dogs in a variety of categories. Once the game has commenced, dogs and their parents are invited to cheer on the Padres from the "Bark in the Park" area, which will be closed off to all fans not participating in the "Dog Days of Summer" event. Local shelters will be inattendance to educate the public on the importance of pet adoption and help find pets a loving home. An other subject close to my heart. 

Applications to attend the event are available atall 22 San Diego-area PETCO and Unleashed by PETCO locations while supplies last.  They are also available to download from www.petco.com/petcopark and all applications will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. PETCO will oversee the application and ticketing process, as well as provide animal care staff on the day of the event. In order to participate,all dogs must show proof of current vaccinations and all applications must be submitted by June 20, 2011. So hurry! 

For more information, please visit www.petco.com/petcopark.