By Jenet Krol

Krol@hometownnewsol.com

COCOA - With most families considering their dogs vital family members, teaching responsible ownership is a must.

To foster healthy human-canine relations, the city of Cocoa, in conjunction with the Brevard County Dog Training Club, is hosting the fourth annual American Kennel Club Responsible Dog Ownership Day, Nov. 8.

"Dogs are just as an important part of a family as the other members are," said Lisa Moody, leisure services director for the city of Cocoa. "It's important to know how to keep them safe and remain part of the family for a long time."

The event will include agility and lure courses, fly ball demonstrations, raffle prizes, dog adoptions from pet rescue organizations, micro chipping services and a doggie-fashion show presented by Frieda's Pet Boutique of Cocoa Village.

New this year is the Doggie Fun Zone, said Ms. Moody.

The run and multi-dimensional lure-motivated obstacle course is designed for dogs and their owners to get out and have fun, said Ms. Moody.

"It's something owner and dog get to do together," she said.

The Brevard Kennel Club will host a "Meet the Breeds" tent so potential dog owners can find a breed that is right for them.

Owners of particular breeds along with the dogs will be on hand to answer questions about breed-specific personalities and traits.

Socialized, well-behaved dogs are invited to attend and must be on a 6-foot, fixed leash at all times.

Admission is free.

The AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 8 at Riverfront Park in Cocoa Village.

For more information, call the city of Cocoa Leisure Services Department at (321) 639-3500 or visit the AKC Web site at www.akc.org.