Saturday, October 3, 2026
Dogfest 2025 highlighted local nonprofits Howie’s Heart, based in Franklin Square, and Canine Companions, offering dog lovers a day filled with fun, laughter and community spirit. The event was hosted at Marjorie R. Post Community Park in Massapequa Park on Sept. 13.
Howie’s Heart handed out “pup cups” of whipped cream, while Canine Companions raised funds by letting dogs try an agility course. Visitors could also stop by a booth to have their pets painted or purchase artwork created by Picasso, a dog known as the second “DogVinci.”
“Canine Companions just does so much for dogs, and they really, truly care,” said James Conklin, co-founder of Howie’s Heart. He said if a dog does not meet the requirements for service training, the nonprofit finds another role—whether as a pet or a personal companion.
One of those dogs was Darla, who won the day’s costume contest dressed as Eeyore. Her owner, Judy Carey, said the character was fitting for Darla, who was released from service dog training because of her shyness and preference for personal space. Carey and Darla were paired last October and are now an official therapy dog team. “She is a wonderful therapy dog and happy to be by my side,” Carey said.
Another therapy dog team at the event was artist Yvonne Dagger and her dog Picasso, who paints abstract works by holding a brush in his mouth with a wooden dowel. Picasso, like Darla, was released from Canine Companions training due to fears. Dagger said she began teaching him to paint after losing her previous therapy dog, also named Dagger, in early 2023. Together, she and Picasso now visit hospitals, rehabilitation centers and schools to comfort people in need.
Picasso’s cousin Eddie, who was decorated with pink polka dots, also made an appearance, arriving with Yvonne’s grandchildren, Annabel and Will. Annabel said her family’s dogs, Eddie and Cassidy, along with Walter, who died last year, bring her comfort. “Whenever I am upset the dogs cheer me up,” she said.
Volunteer Gina DeLuca said what stood out most about Dogfest was the energy. “So much positive energy in one place,” she said. “And the best was watching the dogs interact with each other. Truly adorable!”
