More than 120 people, many of whom brought their own dogs, attended Bryan County Bark Park’s first Yappy Hour on Sept. 12 at Fish Tales Restaurant at Fort McAllister Marina.
The event raised more than $1,500 to build a dog park at Henderson Park, phase one of which is due to open by the end of the year (weather permitting).
Money was raised through Fish Tales owners Butch and Sherri Broome, who donated a percentage of all food and beverage sales from the event and also invented the cocktail “Yap-a-tini” cocktail.
Funds were boosted by attendees’ individual donations and Southern Eagle’s contribution of a keg of beer, which was available for $1 a cup with the purchase of the new “Bark Park” koozie featuring the cute Bryan the dog logo.  
Sales of T-shirts made by Sew Much Baggage, dog and human soap, decals and tasty doggie bagels also were sold at the event.
Thirty-two dogs entered the “Yappiest Smile” competition. Voters can like their favorite dog on the Bryan County Bark Park’s Facebook page. The winner will receive a doggie gift basket and grooming coupon donated by PawParazzi Pet Boutique and Grooming Spa and the Bryan County Bark Park Association. Voting ends at noon Friday.
“Once again, our amazing community stepped up to help us make the dream of a dog park in Richmond Hill become closer to reality,” Bark Park President Wendy Bolton said. “We had great fun at our first Yappy Hour and I want to thank everybody in our community who participated.”  
More programs are planned for this fall.
Other donation options are at bryancountybarkpark.com.