ELKHART — As those ‘dog days of summer’ approach, the Pillars of Elkhart are helping the community survive the heat and reality of back-to-school with an evening of music, food, family and pet-friendly fun.

Pillars of Elkhart is hosting the sixth annual ‘Dog Daze of Summer’ from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, in Central Park, downtown Elkhart.

The event is open to humans and dogs with $5 admission gaining access to music, local vendors and an age 21-and-older beer garden. Guests are encouraged to bring their dogs as long as they are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and other shots and on a leash. Pools of water will be provided for furry friends to cool off.

Vendors offering food for sale during the event include Hotdogeddy and Twisted Cow Frozen Treats, while the Pillars Beer Garden for those 21+ will sell cold beverages.

Pet-related vendors include Nature’s Way Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation, Animal Care Clinic North, Elkhart Police Department, Furry Friends T-shirts and the Elkhart Area Career Center. The Elkhart Police team will hold K-9 demonstrations while other vendors will have activities and demonstrations for kids.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will support Nature’s Way Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation, a local, not-for-profit organization that started in Elkhart in 2002. The team is comprised of veterinary professionals and emergency response professionals who are trained to help animals in different types of disasters ranging from vehicular accidents, animals stuck in ravines or natural disasters such as tornadoes or hurricanes. For additional detail about Nature’s Way Animal Rescue, visit them on Facebook.