Photo of a couple and their dog at a baseball game.

Image Credit: Cathy T (CC BY 2.0)

Once upon a time, the only canine that could be found at a baseball stadium was Schottsie at Riverfront Stadium. Schottsie was the lovable Saint Bernard, owned by Cincinnati Reds owner Marge Schott. And back then, that was a pretty odd sight. No wait a minute, a goat at Wrigley Field...now that's an even odder sight.

Today, Major League Baseball stadiums around the country are holding promotions often called 'Bark in the Park'. This is where baseball fans are allowed to bring their pet to the ballpark for the day. Some ballparks will even hold multiple dog days in a single season. Although these events often support a great cause including humane societies and animal rights groups; why on earth would a fan bring their pet to a baseball game? The chain yanking to dodge other dogs would be enough of a headache. Let's take these events for what they are; an attempt to sell tickets. Never would a 'Bark in the Park' event take place at Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park or any other MLB ballpark that has no problem selling out.

If your favorite team has never hosted one of these quirky events, I will have you know that the dog owners are completely responsible for the dog droppings. The dog owners are also limited to designated seating in the ballpark and the space does fill up. Just two days ago, Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds, had more than 650 dogs at it's annual dog fest. Before the game, all 650 took a lap around the field along the warning track. Depending on how big of a baseball fan you are, that could be reason enough to bring you canine to a baseball stadium. Just don't sit in my section.

 

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