I think Grand Junction needs more dog-friendly events like this one.

There is no question that Grand Junction is a dog-friendly town - meaning we have lots of dogs and dog lovers. The problem is, we are a bit limited on places to take our best friends.

Many of the area hiking trails prohibit dogs and many events in Grand Junction have banned dogs. I do agree with the ban on dogs at downtown events for various reasons - with safety being the primary one. Conflicts between dogs can also be an issue.

I don't mind folks taking their dogs along the riverfront trail, though I must confess it's a bit irritating to be doing what should be a safe run, only to be chased by someone's dog that isn't on a leash.  I understand people wanting to take their dog off leash, but, when there are other people around- the leash needs to say attached to the dog.

So, here's a cool event for dog lovers and their pets. It's the second annual Spring Swing that's being put on by Roice-Hurst Humane Society on May 11. Spring Swing is a dog-friendly concert at the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens featuring the music of the Frank Bregar Rock n' Swing Band.

Dog are welcome to accompany their humans to this musical event that will feature beer from the Rockslide and eats from the La Pupureria Food Truck. I expect folks will be doing plenty of dancing but you'll want to bring a lawn chair or a blanket for when you want to relax. Oh, and don't forget to bring your canine pal attached to a leash.

Tickets for this dog-friendly event are only $5 in advance and $10 at the gate.  You Can get tickets at Roice-Hurst, Bellco Credit Union, or RHHUMANESOCIETY.ORG. By the way, dogs get in free, as do children 12 and under. All the proceeds from this event will benefit the homeless pets at Roice Hurst Humane Society.

This is a good excuse to get out with your pet and enjoy the spring weather in the Grand Valley and we'll look forward to more dog-friendly events in 2019. We need more of these events on the calendar.

More From Mix 104.3