HWAC's 8th annual Surf Dog Surf-a-thon to be held on September 8

Via PRNewswire - With summertime nearing its close, west-coast canines wouldn't dream of missing the singular event of the beach season – Helen Woodward Animal Center's 8th Annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, held at Dog Beach in Del Mar, sponsored by Blue Buffalo.

The Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon takes place Sunday, September 8 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT and is certain to make some very big waves!

Helen Woodward Animal Center's canine surf contest is the largest of its kind in the country and will feature more than 80 dogs surfing in four different weight class competitions. Winners are selected based upon their ability to ride the waves, have fun and stay on their boards.

"Top Surf Dog"-hopefuls will compete for the coveted title, wagging rights at dog beaches and parks, and a Top Fundraiser Grand Prize fishing trip to Mexico. Each surFUR heat will be judged by celebrities, surf pros and aficionados.

Other dog-and-family friendly activities include the Beach Bum Canine Costume Contest; a costumed Team Spirit Surf Competition; over 40 interactive vendor booths; and newly added activities including a Flying Fido Frisbee Festival and a Special Kid's Activity area along with Sandcastle Building, Musical Towels, Hula Hoop Contests and more.

The event has a lot to celebrate in its eighth year as supporters are already breaking records thanks to sponsors and individual canine athletes and their families in an incredible push for participation and fundraising, which to-date has already raised over $68,000.

Many pooches will sport blue "Rescue Hero" bandanas at the event to show their ongoing ohana commitment to their fuzzy friends still awaiting forever families. All of the proceeds from the annual competition and festivities go towards the animals and programs at Helen Woodward Animal Center.

Adding to the feel-good vibes of the upcoming event, an as-yet-unnamed local Surf Dog legend will be inducted into Helen Woodward Animal Center's Surf Dog Hall of Fame, joining Buddy the Jack Russell Terrier as only the second inductee in the sport's history. The surprise unveiling of the latest surFUR to make his mark in Surf Dog history will be honored in a special ceremony following the competition.

If you can't be there in person, watch the broadcast live at 8:30 a.m. PT/11:30 a.m. ET on Ustream.tv. For more information on the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon, visit www.surfdog.kintera.org.