Lakewood Ranch is going to the dogs on Saturday, June 5, for a paw-tastic event hosted by Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming and the event planning company Independent Jones at Premier Sports Campus. Carnival-themed games, contests and treats for dogs and humans will be abundant.

The event, sponsored by Bayside Pet Resort, will take place from 9 a.m. to noon, and entry costs $10 per vehicle. Proceeds from the event will go toward local rescues Low Rider Dachshund Rescue of Florida and the Humane Society of Lakewood Ranch. In addition to monetary donations, the rescues will also be accepting physical donations of blankets, dog food, bowls and other supplies.

"We wanted to see what we can do for the community to help get people and their pets outside," says Woof Gang owner Dottie DeCarlo. "Dogs will compete in fun contests and win little prizes, and the event will be at the beautiful Premier Sports Center, so we can enjoy the spacious outdoors."

Dogs can navigate agility courses, splash in pools and drink from water stations to cool off. Vendors will include JB's Doggie Delights of South Florida and a hot dog truck for humans. Events include an ice cream eating contest, the "Beauty and the Leash" dog pageant (in which you can dress in matching outfits with your dog) and a "Running of the Pups" race.

Owners can also partake in field day games like egg-on-a-spoon races and more. Enter raffles, or shop at vendor booths from local businesses. All dogs must be kept on a six-foot leashes or less (no retractable leashes allowed) and bring a chair or two to relax on the lawn.

"This is the first time we are hosting this event, and we want to expand next year to include an adoption area, with some rescue pups," says DeCarlo. "We are thinking big but starting small."

For more information, click here or call Woof Gang Bakery at (941) 907-9111. Premier Sports Campus is located at 5895 Post Blvd., Lakewood Ranch.