Run Rampant, Fur Children

Your dog has a certain athleticism about him: He could play football professionally if he had thumbs, coordination and the ability to run past anyone without stopping to sniff their privates. This Sunday you can let your pup show off his dexterity at Dog Bowl, as the Cotton Bowl (3750 The Midway in Fair Park) is converted into a giant, off-leash dog park for one, glorious day. (A portion of the field is reserved for little pups, so feel free to bring tiny Mr. Sparkles along.) There will be kiddie pools filled with water so dogs can drink together or just soak, and beer for sale, so humans can do the same. “Animal exclusive” obstacle courses will be erected, there’s a canine obedience course at 1:30 and 2:45 p.m. (lotta luck learning a new trick in this environment), a pet/owner look-alike contest at 4:20 p.m., and a whole slew of vendors offering to commemorate your puppy love via portraits, photography and even plaster of Paris paw prints. Don’t have a dog but want one? Operation Kindness, Humane Society of Dallas County, Weimaraner Rescue of Texas, Lone Star Pyrs and Paws, All Dachshund Rescue, Recycled Pomeranians (sounds messy), and many other breed-specific organizations will have animals that need adopted. The whole thing is free and runs from 1 to 5 p.m., but parking is $10, so pack those tails into one ride.

Sun., May 6, 1-5 p.m., 2012