DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Dogs and their owners took to the waves Sunday during the Hang 8 Dog Surfing Extravaganza, a beachside event that combined surfing, community engagement and fundraising for local animal welfare organizations.
The event drew dog lovers, surfers and animal advocates to Daytona Beach, where four-legged competitors of all experience levels showed off their surfing skills on Volusia County’s newest dog-friendly beach.
“We love surfing. We love dogs, and we love to hang a surfing event. So we’re happy to be here. And we’re so proud of Weenie,” one participant said.
The competition took place on a 1.7-mile dog-friendly stretch of beach that opened in December. The area expanded opportunities for dog owners in Volusia County, joining the existing dog beach in Ormond Beach.
Residents said the addition has already become a popular destination for pet owners.
“Awesome. Awesome. I think it’s fantastic. I love it, and he’s already been here about three times now,” one Volusia County resident said.
The event welcomed dogs ranging from first-time surfers to seasoned wave riders. Some owners said years of practice helped prepare their pets for the competition.
“She’s been doing this for four years. This year was the first time that she went out with a couple of my surfing buddies. They put her out there for me. And so she did wonderful,” one participant said.
Another young surfer explained how he helps keep his canine partner balanced on the board.
“I grab her. Or she just goes on the top of my board, and I make sure she’s steady,” he said.
Volusia County Animal Services had teams stationed on the beach and in the water throughout the event. A mobile veterinary clinic was also on site to provide assistance if needed.
Organizers said the event served as a fundraiser benefiting multiple animal welfare organizations. One-third of the proceeds will go to Volusia County Animal Services, one-third will support Hang 8 and its charitable partners, and one-third will benefit Daytona Dog Beach Inc., the nonprofit organization that helps maintain Volusia County’s dog-friendly beaches.
Daytona Dog Beach Inc. President Nanette Mackle Petrella said the nonprofit relies on donations and volunteers to maintain the beaches and support future projects.
“We are the sponsors of the dog friendly beaches in Volusia County. We pay for all the supplies ongoing. Volunteers are out here every day cleaning these dog friendly sections,” Petrella said. “We’ll utilize that money to keep those projects going. We feel there’s a lot of opportunity to make our area more dog friendly.”