An always popular event in the Toledo area is the Paws and Pucks game hosted by the Toledo Walleye.
For those who don’t know, The Toledo Walleye play in the heart of Downtown at the Huntington Center.
In the past, neither myself nor my boyfriend had any interest in attending because the dogs we had (and still have) are stress monsters and wouldn’t have handled the noise and the crowds well.
Since becoming a dog groomer and my boyfriend becoming a dog trainer, and us finally acquiring a dog that lives for attention and big events, we jumped on the opportunity to see what a Paws and Pucks game was like.
When we pulled up, it was already a lively spectacle, and we hadn’t even entered the building yet. Parked out front sat a replica of the Mystery Machine, where Scooby himself greeted people and dogs alike. Dogs and owners were decked out in Walleye jerseys and other festive flair.
We were surprised just how many people brought their dogs, and it was apparent that this was a much bigger thing than we had imagined it to be.
We let our dog, Hershey, show off a bit with his obedience skills before we went in. We entered through the Madison St. entrance, where they had a nicely maintained grassy area that served as a potty spot for the dogs.
We checked in and the ladies that helped us were very nice and informative. They loved Hershey and gave him a “souvenir” which was just a poop bag holder in the shape of a bone.
Before we went to find our seats, we hung out in the lobby/concessions area where we observed dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds go by. Some even stopped to say hello to Hershey.
Everyone who brought a dog were sat in a special dog friendly area (Sections 109-113 from Row H and higher)
Hershey got his very own seat and was just excited to be there.
After waiting about 30 minutes, the game started and the Walleyes came skating out in Scooby-Doo themed jerseys! They were bright and colorful and really stood out against their opponent; The South Carolina Stingrays.
Neither one of us really knew anything about hockey, but there were plenty of things going on to keep our focus. Not only were there so many adorable dogs, but there were little contests and trivia (all Scooby-Doo themed) events going on during the slow times.
I was amazed that all the dogs, even ones that were sitting very close to each other, were well-behaved. I think that has more to do with all the other things that were going on.
They were probably pretty overwhelmed.
It was much appreciated that the Walleye did not use the goal horn, so the dogs wouldn’t get freaked out.
In case you don’t know what I’m referring to here… below is the Toledo Walleye Horn!
Overall, we had a really good time and I know Hershey did too. We will definitely plan on going again now that we know what to expect.
We learned later that after the game, since it was Sunday and a home game, that there was a free open skate.
Anyone who wanted to participate could lace up in the Aquarium near the Jefferson Avenue Lobby. Skaters could provide their own skates or rent them at the Huntington Center for $5.
The open skate lasts approximately one hour after the game.
If you’re like us and are always looking for new places and events to take your furry friend, consider going to a Paws and Pucks game when they come around. I believe there was one back in January and then the one we went to earlier this month.
If you come to a Paws and Pucks game, here’s what you need to know.
- Tickets are $17 per human and $8 per dog.
- Dogs must be on a leash 6ft or less, no retractable leashes are allowed.
- There is a limit of one well-mannered dog per adult.
- Special water stations and designated restrooms are provided.
- Pets and owners enter through the Madison St. entrance.
- There is a waiver you must fill out if you bring your dog.
- 100% of the proceeds from dog tickets are donated to the Toledo Area Humane Society and Lucas County Canine Care & Control.
