DogFest in Massapequa to benefit Canine Companions

September is National Service Dog Month and an event called DogFest Long Island will be held in Massapequa to celebrate.

Hosted by the Town of Oyster Bay and Canine Companions, DogFest will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Marjorie Post Park.

The event will feature games, speakers, activities for kids, service demonstrations and more.

There is no fee for DogFest, but people are encouraged to fundraise and help spread the word about the event by visiting the DogFest Long Island website. All money raised will benefit Canine Companions, a nonprofit which works to place expertly-trained service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities, free of charge.

Canine Companions’ mission is to help clients and their service dogs live with greater independence, and more than 400 people are currently waiting for their new canine partners.

DogFest attendees are invited to bring well-socialized dogs, provided they are friendly with other dogs and people, comfortable in crowds and fully vaccinated. All dogs must be kept on leash no longer than six feet at all times. For more information visit www.canine.org.