This picnic went to the dogs.

And cats.

And even a rabbit.

The Ohio Union Activities Board held a “Cookout with your Pet” July 26 as part of its What’s Up Wednesdays summer series.

Maggie Lengerich, OUAB late-night chair and a junior in social work, said the idea was inspired by seeing people and their dogs around campus and figuring it would be a fun get-together.

The picnic consisted of hot dogs, hamburgers, fruit, chips, drinks, desserts and treats for the animals. Upbeat music blared from a DJ station while members of Ohio State and surrounding communities mingled and their pets roamed the South Oval.

Lengerich said Oxley’s catered the event and Heidi’s Homemade donated the pets’ snacks.

For many, the highlight of the picnic was the entertainment. Two events, a “coolest trick” contest and “musical towels” (a play on musical chairs), were open to any pets that wanted to participate.

Six dogs showed off their best tricks. The winner was Amanda Stover, a resident of Columbus, and her dog, Winny, an assistance dog from Canine Companions in Delaware, Ohio. Winny won by collecting and returning the keys Stover dropped.

Vonda Henthorne, a friend of Stover’s, said the dogs train for about one-and-a-half years before they can assist an individual.

After having Winny for seven and a half years, Stover enumerated on the dog’s multiple talents.

“I’ve taught her how to do laundry,” Stover said. “She doesn’t do it very much.”

Winny can also let herself out, open doors, help with the toilet and turn lights on and off. Stover said the dog’s cuddling is one of her favorite things.

One of the other competitors, Mandy Seymour, said she wished she could have honed one final trick prior to the competition. She has been teaching her dog, Sprocket, to growl when President Bush’s name is mentioned.

The musical towels game was won by Minnie, Joseph and Anita Branin’s puppy. Joseph Branin is the director of Ohio State University Libraries.

Winners received a $25 gift certificate to PETCO.

Many people liked the idea of a pet picnic. Among those was Julianne Kozer, a junior in international intelligence and security, who brought along her rabbit, Roo.

“I think it’s really cute, like seriously adorable,” Kozer said.

When asked what Roo has eaten, Kozer said, “…carpet, cords, homework.”

“She hasn’t touched anything yet,” Kozer said of the picnic food.

Overall, Lengerich was optimistic about the results of the picnic.

“I was really happy with the turnout,” she said.