The second annual Canine Happy Hour is scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Anderson Park District Dog Field. Last year's event drew 162 dogs and nearly 200 dog owners and raised more than $5,000.

At the Canine Happy Hour, dogs will drink free plus receive goody bags and treats. A 3.5-acre off-leash area will be open and available to all vaccinated and non-aggressive dogs over the age of four months. The local band 46 Long and others will provide live entertainment throughout the event while the dogs' owners enjoy cash bars plus giveaways and door prizes. A silent auction will also be held.

In addition this year, pet psychics, dog masseuses, canine agility trainers, pet fashion boutiques and other professionals will offer demonstrations, information and advice.

The event raises money for a cause that hits close to home for more than 5,000 Greater Cincinnatians - Multiple Sclerosis. Greater Cincinnati has a high incidence rate of the debilitating disease, which usually strikes people in their 20s, 30s and 40s and can result in blindness and paralysis. Proceeds from the Canine Happy Hour go to the Accelerated Cure Project, a national nonprofit working to find the cause and cure for MS.

The Accelerated Cure Project is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to curing Multiple Sclerosis by accelerating the pace of determining its causes. For more information, go to www.acceleratedcure.org. Proceeds from the event will also help ongoing park maintenance and improvements at the Anderson Township Dog Park.

Tickets can be purchased at www.acceleratedcure.org/events/calendar.php or at the event and are $15 per adult. Dogs and kids get in for free. In case of rain, the event will take place the following Saturday, Sept. 15.

Anderson Park District Dog Field is located at 6701 Kellogg Ave., east of River Downs, in Anderson Township. Parking is free.

E-mail caninehappyhour@yahoo.com.