BALBOA PARK — A longtime haven for dog lovers, Balboa Park is celebrating the two-year anniversary of its popular blog, written by Cosmos the Dog, with a photo contest to determine the Top Dog in Balboa Park. After judges have selected five finalists, visitors to BalboaPark.org can vote on their choice for Top Dog, with the grand prize winner receiving an overnight Su’ruff Camp package from Loews Coronado Bay Resort. The Top Dog Photo Contest, sponsored by Balboa Park Central, is designed to give park visitors an opportunity to demonstrate just how photogenic their pooch is when photographed in one of the most picturesque settings in San Diego. Photos of a single dog taken somewhere in Balboa Park can be submitted via e-mail to [email protected] now until noon August 20. A committee of judges from Balboa Park will choose five finalists to be posted on BalboaPark.org, where visitors to the Web site can vote for their favorite from Aug. 24 through Sept 1. The top vote getter’s family will be awarded Loews Coronado Bay Resort’s Su’ruff Camp package, which includes a one-night stay in deluxe accommodations at Loews Coronado Bay Resort, surfing lessons for one dog, and a variety of other doggie amenities and treats, as well as a family four-pack of Balboa Park Passports, good for two adults and two children. One first runner up will receive a $50 gift certificate to Fetch Pet Care, and one second runner up will receive a $25 gift certificate to Terra Restaurant in Hillcrest. Participants are advised to visit www.balboapark.org for a complete listing of contest prizes and rules. Since summer 2008, Cosmos’ Doggie Blog has given its following of two- and four-legged readers a dog’s-eye view of Balboa Park. In addition to discussing all the pet-friendly attractions and events in the Park, the blog has highlighted money-saving tips; the Park’s trail system and recreational facilities; special exhibitions, concerts and festivals; as well as out-of-the-way picnic areas and horticultural wonders in the Park’s many gardens.
