Club Promotes Island as Pet Friendly
By Karen Gould

Preceding their first visit to Mackinac Island Tuesday, April 11, Arlene and Jerry Davis of North Carolina asked the Tourism Bureau if they could bring their dog, Jackson Archo, with them. "We were surprised and happy our dog could come with us for the day," Mr. Davis said.

The creation of the Dog and Pony Club was born from those planning to visit Mackinac Island and asking if they could bring their dog. It is, in fact, the most asked question the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau receives, said Mary McGuire Slevin, the bureau's director and a dog owner. She co-founded the group along with Island resident Sara Chambers, who owns a horse and believes pets bring happiness to families.

The two organizers said they want to make the Island more pet friendly.

Established in 2005, the club's mission is to raise awareness of horses and dogs who live on and visit Mackinac Island.

The club is in the process of applying for nonprofit status and is joining with Island businesses to promote pet friendly experiences on Mackinac.

This year, a Barkitecture contest is underway that will judge creative dog houses that reflect the architecture of Mackinac Island. The winner will be named Saturday, June 17, during the Lilac Festival.

The second annual Epona and Barkus Parade and Dog and Pony Show will be held this year, also on June 17.

Epona and Barkus Parade derives its name from the Roman and Celtic goddess of horses, the protector of all animals. Barkus comes from the New Orleans dog parade called Krewe of Barkus Parade, said Mrs. Slevin. The parade route is from the school to Windermere Point.

A blessing of all animals will be held Friday, June 16.

The Dog and Pony Club is working to create awareness that Mackinac Island is a pet friendly place, said Mrs. Slevin, noting six Island lodging establishments welcome pets, as do all outdoor restaurants. Pet menus are even offered at Mary's Bistro and at the Bistro on the Green.

Pets also travel free on the ferry boats from the mainland,

Ms. Sleven noted, and many attractions on the Island also welcome pets, including Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, and some of the shops.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours allows small dogs to sit on the laps of their owners, and even larger dogs are permitted, but are charged a child's fare if they require a seat. All dogs must be friendly toward the horses, of course.

"With 70 miles of trails, this is a great place to bring your dog for a vacation," she added.