Dog Friendly Events

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a little extra \*moo\*-magic! Free with your General Admission ticket , you can enjoy a special photo op with Rusty, the adorable Highland calf, make flower pots & cards for Mom, and spend time with our sweet spring babies. Grab some delicious bites from Two Smooth Dudes food truck while the kids play and explore!

Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other! For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run. Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates. Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save... Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park! We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides… change.org Shirlington Dog Park Page Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890

We will be celebrating Mother's Day with a walk around the DC Arboretum weather permitting. We will gathering at the Columns and will depart and walk the Azalea trail loop which is accessible and pretty level ground. If others have more enthusiasm for a slightly harder follow-on walk you can join us for the Asian gardens or the Fern Valley depending on the weather. Please try to arrive early as this is a very popular spot on Mother's Day when the weather is good and parking near the visitor center or the Columns fills up really quickly. There is always overflow parking at the NY avenue entrance so if you are running late feel free to catch up to the group. As always bring whatever you need (poop bags, water, stroller) for your corgis and RSVP the number of CORGIS attending. Normal rules apply for us (need full dog vaccination, no females in heat, no aggressive behavior allowed, mixes always welcome if corgi friendly, be responsible for your own corgi and "human puppies" behavior if bringing kids) but you may want to double check the venue rules. Entrance should be free but as this is not my venue venue may surprise us with events or fees so always be prepared. Rain date announcement will be made by Saturday midnight.

Meet new friends and enjoy a **medium/low difficulty hike** at Ball’s Bluff Regional Park! This hike focuses on good conversation and fresh air as we hike through wooded trails, with scenic views of the Potomac River. It’s a perfect way to connect with others who love the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Leesburg during this 3-hour hike. Ball’s Bluff Regional Park is a hidden gem rich in history and natural beauty. The park features winding forest trails, scenic river views, and quiet spots perfect for taking a break or chatting with fellow hikers. Once the site of a Civil War battle, it’s now a serene place to enjoy nature and experience a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Leesburg. **Meeting Time & Location:** 9:30 AM at the **Ball's Bluff Regional Park Parking Lot**. **Distance:** 5.34 miles (approximately) **Elevation Gain:** 643 feet **Difficulty:** Moderate Hike This hike features natural trails with moderate difficulty, including some elevation gains. We recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes to navigate this terrain comfortably. **Estimated Duration:** 3 hours. **Waitlist Policy** To keep things fair, hikers will be moved off the waitlist in this order: **1\. Regular Hikers:** Those who join hikes often get first priority. **2\. Past Hikers:** Next are returning hikers, based on attendance and cancellation history. Frequent cancellations may lower priority. **3\. New Hikers:** New members will be added as space allows. **Age Requirement:** **Children under 18 are not permitted** to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **Pace:** Moderate. We'll walk a steady, comfortable pace that’s manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment. **Trail Map:** [Ball's Bluff - 5.34mi loop](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-ball-s-bluff-red-and-orange-loop-0010dae?u=i&sh=mdqqtd) **Restrooms:** Restrooms are not available on this hike. **Lunch After the Hike:** After we wrap up our hike, we invite you to join us for a relaxed lunch together. We'll meet for a casual lunch at **[Vanish Farmwoods Brewery,](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)** *[42245 Black Hops Lane](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)* *[Leesburg, VA 20176](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RRviGPewRvUmow46A)*

Let's celebrate Mother's Day! Join Sarah and Willow for a walk at the Arboretum! We will meet at the **[Asian Collection Parking](https://share.google/U4VoB8126aNFBG8HM)**[ ](https://share.google/U4VoB8126aNFBG8HM) at 9:00am and plan to go for about an 1hr30min walk. There should be a lot blooming in the Asian collection. We will start there, do a big loop through some fields, then end at the Dogwood collection next to the Asian collection. Time: 9:00am - 10:30ish. Plan on getting there a little early so we can be ready to go on time. Location: Asian collection parking. Overflow just down the hill at the Dogwood Collection. [Link to google location of parking](https://share.google/U4VoB8126aNFBG8HM) What to expect: This walk will be on leash. Don't forget to bring water for you and your dog. The walking surface will be a mix of paved road and grass/dirt. More info and directions here: https://usna.usda.gov/visit/hours-and-directions/

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. **Hike Overview:** This will be a 10-mile hike in and around Great Falls, Maryland, with about 800 feet of elevation gain. We will be hiking in the woods, not along the towpath. The trail can be rocky and uneven at times. Plan for some small hills and stream crossings. I hike at a moderate to fast pace of 2.5-3.0 miles per hour. **Park Entrance Fee**: None. **Trailhead:** The trailhead / hike starting location is at the far end of the upper parking lot across from the Old Angler's Inn. The restrooms at the other end (by the entrance) should be open. **Duration**: Approximately 5 hours **Route**: We’ll hike up to the Gold Mine Loop, circle around the east side, make our way down to the towpath, and then visit Olmsted Island for a lovely view of the falls. Once back at the towpath, we'll head past the visitor center and parking lot north to the Ford Mine Loop. After finishing this loop, we'll retrace our steps to the visitor center, hike along the Overlook Trail and around the Gold Mine Loop and back to the parking lot. Highlights include: the falls overlook, Civil War trenches, gold mine sites, and a pretty stream. **Type**: Our path will be roughly in the shape of a barbell. **Hiking Speed**: We'll hike at a speed of 2.5-3.0 mph (moderate to fast). **Pets:** Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with NVHC's dog policy: [https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy). The dog must be on a leash, and you must let the hike leader know in advance. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk to Olmsted Island, so any hikers with a dog would have to wait at the entrance while the group goes to view the falls. **Map of Hiking Trails at Great Falls, Maryland:** [https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/upload/Great-Falls-Hiking-Map.pdf)

Consider it cancelled if it’s raining (Sorry, not at that level yet 😬) Maybe one day!

Arrival time: 9:00 am Pedal: 9:15 am. The weather looks to be great for Sunday. The Rides Two routes of varying length and difficulty are available for this ride. Both routes start and end at the same location. Ride A (Some Hills) Distance: 39.0 mi Total Climb: 2,151 ft Max Grade: 6.9% Avg. Pace: 15 to 17 MPH (we may separate into two groups: A1 avg. 17 + mph and A2 avg. 15 to 16 mph) Route Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28212610 Ride B (Fewer Hills) Distance: 29.8 mi Total Climb: 1434 ft Avg. Pace: 12 - 14 MPH Max Grade: 6.5% Route Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28212689 All persons participating in this activity accept and/or assume any and all risks of injuries (physical or otherwise) arising from and/or associated with this activity. Notes: * Each person is responsible for loading the route onto to your GPS device or printing your own cue sheet. You can use the links below to download the route map. After the Ride...Pizza! After the ride, we'll meet for refreshing beverages, delicious food, and great conversation at Firework's Pizza. Fireworks Pizza, which is located on Harrison Street SE just 2 blocks north of the W&OD Trail, is well known for their great pizza, yet has an impressive list of non-pizza offerings as well. We will likely arrive at Fireworks pizza between 12:30 and 1:00 pm. Click HERE (http://www.fireworkspizza.com/FireWorksLeesburg.html) to go to the Firework's Pizza web site for more information.

NO CLEAT SHOES. Please show up at 06:45 PM sharp so we can warm up, distribute pennies, and make the division. IF YOU ARE A FIRST-TIMER PLEASE PAY UPFRONT OR ELSE YOUR SPOT WILL BE GIVEN TO SOMEONE ELSE. We are back at our old location for the next set of games - Dulles Sportsplex at Sterling, VA ! We'll play in Field #2 for this game. (might be field 1 or 3 as a result of last minute change by sportsplex so please check other fields if you don't find us on 2) \*\*\*\* $15 each player \*\*\*\* 1- You need to RSVP. **Those who RSVP but do not show up will be banned from the group** 2- $15 each player will be collected before the game. We accept payment through Venmo (https://venmo.com/u/Rizwan-Sabir-1) and zelle (571-266-9736). Once you have paid please DM me so i can mark you as paid. 3- We'll play in Field #2. 4- Pinnies will be provided. 5. No cleats are allowed 6. Please download the Covidwise app 7. please appear at field at least 15 minutes ahead to warm up and manage the players distribution. For legal purposes, we need to add the following:- BY JOINING AND/OR PARTICIPATING WITH Sterling Pick-up Indoor Weekend Soccer YOU CERTIFY THE FOLLOWING: I certify that playing soccer may be risky and dangerous. I realize that those risks include, but are not limited to, permanent paralysis and death, and may result from slips, falls, collisions, equipment failure, bad decision-making, inattentive players and from equipment that has become worn, loose or damaged. I understand that there are unforeseeable accidents. While particular rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce this risk, I acknowledge the risk of injury does exist. You also certify that Sterling Pick-up Indoor Weekend Soccer and/or its organizers are not responsible for any injuries. Due to covid 19 please be advised with the following: 1- stay home if you have been in close contact with someone who was diagnosed with Covid 19 or if you had any of the following symptoms in the last 3 days: achy/itchy throat, diarrhea, elevated temperature, loss of smell or taste, coughing or sneezing continuously 2- wear a face mask at all time on the premises of the sports complex when not playing 3- do not shake hands with any team members or high five before or during the game 4- bring your own hand sanitizer with you in the game so you can disinfect with every water break 5- Download the covidwise app to help with contact tracing in order to insure safety of all game members 6- please understand that the risk of conducting Covid 19 is higher when you engage in contact sports and accept full responsibility towards this possibility. By signing up for this game you hereby accept the above terms and conditions and therefore any of the game organizers or game participants are not legally or morally responsible for anyone’s well being but their own.

**Mother’s Day at Machu Picchu Restobar** Treat Mom to the best Peruvian cuisine in Ashburn with a side of smooth sounds. 🎷 **Live Saxophonist** starting at 1:00 PM 🍹 **Mom’s First Drink is FREE!** 🍽️ **No Reservations Needed** – Walk-ins only (First come, first served) Make this Sunday special with great food, refreshing cocktails, and the perfect weekend atmosphere. * **The Bar:** Full cocktail menu and Pisco specials available. * **The Atmosphere:** High-energy, loud music, and the best crowd in NoVa. * **Location:** 📍 20020 Ashbrook Commons Plz Unit 117, Ashburn, VA 20147

**Sellkirk paddles will be available for all who attend to try and hopefully learn the game. if you’re interested, you can buy one.** **This is INSTRUCTION PICKLEBALL for** **Beginners.** **Note $5 fee for wear and tear on paddles and replacement of pickle balls.** **Reminder this is for beginners maybe you’ve taken two or three of the classes before. The idea is to give others a chance to learn the game** **so you could be put on the waitlist.** 
**
We can begin by just hitting the ball around (Dinking and Serving) until you’re comfortable and then start the introduction to Pickle Ball.** **Please study the rules of Pickleball. There will be a quiz. ** **https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/fitness/a41889595/pickleball-rules/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_dsa_prog_org_us_a41889595&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADA2MEqo78AlxWw25v72aAqTYZy2o&gclid=CjwKCAiAtYy9BhBcEiwANWQQLzWcA4GRJ5dNAtBpRG0nMJqvUlr67XGuB8hSrEaEZmWioeNiorM6jRoC0BkQAvD_BwE** **If I am late take the court that has the blue pickle ball lines on it to the far entrance to the court.
There is a Porta Johns at this location** **Bring a baseball cap, sunglasses and water**

HSLC has many cats and kitties hoping to find their fur-ever families! Come meet them at the Petsmart in Leesburg from Noon to 2:00pm on Sunday, June 14th. For a sneak peek of our adoptable animals, please visit [Humane Society of Loudoun County](https://humaneloudoun.org/adopt/) If a particular fur-baby (or two) catches your eye, [complete an no-obligation application today](https://humaneloudoun.org/adopt/adoption-process/) to expedite the application process.

THE TIME IS NOW. While we celebrate the 1500 beagles getting released from Ridglan, there is still work to be done! To gather more participants and momentum, we are transitioning the rally to May 23rd to fight for the approximately 23,000 dogs trapped in Marshall BioResources in NY. We are also targeting NIH who funds institutions who buy beagles for testing. **Attend the Rally: We will peacefully gather with signs, posters, and positive energy. Bring your friends and share widely!** **Location: Bethesda, MD on 355 near the NIH Metro, any changes will be noted. 1 pm-3 pm**

🐾 Dog Sound Bath A gentle sound healing experience designed for dogs, with their humans alongside them. Join us for a small-group Dog Sound Bath, created to support your dog’s nervous system through gentle, grounding sound. This experience is designed for dogs first, with their humans alongside them for comfort, co-regulation, and connection. Using crystal singing bowls and other soft, supportive sounds, we create a calm environment where dogs are invited to settle, rest, and relax at their own pace. Some dogs may lie down, some may remain alert at first — all responses are welcome and respected. To help us prepare a calm and supportive experience, we kindly ask that payment be completed prior to attending. Dogs will remain on leash at all times and under the care of their person. Each dog will have space to rest comfortably next to their human while sound is offered with close attention to body language and comfort cues. Sound is adjusted as needed to support each dog’s comfort. This is a small group experience to ensure safety, calm energy, and the ability to respond thoughtfully to each dog. Important details: • Dogs must remain leashed at all times • Owners are responsible for their dog’s behavior and comfort • A waiver is required to attend • If a group setting is not the right fit for your dog, private sessions are available upon request Cost & Registration: • Cost: $75 per pet • Registration & Payment: Please complete advance payment using the link below. [https://pay.hoofs-woofs-masseuse.com/d5d03b1b-276b-4274-a288-97f](https://pay.hoofs-woofs-masseuse.com/d5d03b1b-276b-4274-a288-97f) Space is limited, and advance payment allows us to prepare the space and sound experience appropriately for each dog. 📍 Location: Light Works Spiritual Wellness, Manassas, VA 🕰️ Duration: Approximately 45 minutes Hosted by Hoofs & Woofs Masseuse Meet Tina McKevitt Certified Equine & Canine Massage Therapist, Animal Reiki Practitioner, and Owner of "Hoofs & Woofs Masseuse" From a young age, Tina felt a deep connection with animals—whether it was her own pets, the horses she rode, or animals in the wild. Being around them has always brought her a sense of peace, and throughout her life, animals have healed her in so many ways. It felt only natural to want to give that same care back to them. As Tina watched many of her pets age, all she wanted was to help them feel more comfortable and supported. That desire is what inspired her to start Hoofs & Woofs Masseuse. She feels truly blessed to now be offering her services and to give back to the fur babies who give us so much every day. At Hoofs & Woofs Masseuse, Tina believes in promoting the health and well-being of your furry companions through specialized sports massage therapy, including equine massage therapy for horses and canine massage services for dogs. Her holistic approach not only focuses on relaxation and recovery but also incorporates elements like Animal Reiki to enhance overall wellness. She aims to reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility and range of motion, accelerate the healing of injuries, and provide stress relief for your beloved pets. To learn more or to schedule a session, visit www.hoofs-woofs-masseuse.com or contact Tina @ 571-991-1717

Social Sips & Bites family, Memorial Day weekend is calling and we’re bringing everyone together for a fun, relaxed picnic celebration with the SSB crew. Expect great food, sunshine, music, laughter, and that amazing Social Sips & Bites energy we all love. Bring your favorite dish to share with the group and your favorite drinks, and get ready for an afternoon of mingling, new friendships, and good vibes all around. This is the perfect chance to kick off summer with our incredible community. Contribution: $5 to help cover park setup and supplies. Please send a Venmo or Zelle to Judy Cheung before the picnic- by May 22nd. Her Venmo and Zelle infornation is in the sign up link. Her Zelle last four digits is 3353. Come hungry. Come social. Come ready for one of those classic SSB days where strangers become friends and friends become family. There is plenty of parking available and restrooms are also available at the park. Everyone should plan to bring their own beverages, a chair and a blanket if you wish. Please sign up on the link below to contribute help, food, and games. Sign up link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4BAAA628A7F8C34-62911568-social

Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other! For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run. Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates. Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save... Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park! We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides… change.org Shirlington Dog Park Page Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890

Trivia!! CHANGE OF VENUE: DOG HAUS BEIRGARDEN IN KENTLANDS Trivia starts promptly at 7, come earlier to get set up 630-645. 644 Center Point Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Spanish Circle Time/El Circulo de Cuentos en Español features stories and songs in Spanish presented by Miss Roxana.