Get ready for the cutest surfing competition you will ever see. The annual World Dog Surfing Championships will take place in Pacifica on Saturday, August 3, 2024. That’s right, not only does dog surfing exist, its reach expands across the United States, even making it to the United Kingdom. The competition will take place at Linda Mar Beach, also known as Pacifica State Beach, known for its surfing and beautiful views. Even if your dog isn’t a surf champion, you can still bring them along to cheer on the other surfers and enjoy a beach day.
Schedule and events
- 9:00 am: Registration and sign-in for events begins bright and early.
- 10 am: The surfing competition begins. The heats are divided by size for small, medium, and large dogs, as well as a tandem surfing event that features two dogs on a board.
- 1:00-2:00 pm: Surf competitions end and prizes are awarded to the adorable surfers.
- 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: The event will also have a pet wellness fair that includes checkups for dogs and luxurious massages to pamper your pups.
- 12:00- 1:00 pm: Finally, there will be a beach fashion and costume contest, giving you the perfect opportunity to dress up your dog in surfer-chic fashion.
- Timing to be announced: Plus, if surfing isn’t your dog’s forte, there is a fetch competition based on the speed and distance of a ball retrieved in the water. The time for the event has not been listed yet, but it’s the perfect opportunity for your fetch-obsessed pets to show off their skills.
History and charity
The idea for a dog surfing competition sprung from a book titled “The Dog’s Guide to Surfing.” The author, Kevin Reed, had the idea for a pet-friendly surfing competition, starting what is now an international sport. The first event was held at a hotel in San Diego, but as of today, it has spread across the United States and even reached the United Kingdom.
The event isn’t just about furry friends surfing their hearts out; it also acts as a fundraising event for nonprofits Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA and Rocket Dog Rescue. The Peninsula Humane Society finds homes for dogs, cats, and other animals. The shelter accepts sick and injured animals as well, working to find them homes that can provide the adequate care they need.
Rocket Dog Rescue gives dogs from overcrowded Bay Area shelters a second chance at adoption in loving homes. The Oakland-based rescue has been helping dogs for over 20 years and is entirely financed by donations. Rocket Dog Rescue will have dogs available for adoption at the Saturday event.
Check out the World Dog Surfing Championship website to learn more about the event.