Doga: Strange Sightings in Rose Park on Saturday Morning

Cars slowed, pedestrians stopped. They could not believe what they were seeing but everyone smiled. It was Tranquil Space yoga studio's Annual Doga in the Park!

Kimberly Wilson the owner of Tranquil Space Studio has been doing the Annual Doga in the Park since May 2005. She explains that she is a dog owner and huge fan of the Washington Humane Society so it made sense to combine the Humane Society, Tranquil Space and Doggy Style Bakery to create a fun frolic outside.

About twenty humans and a similar number of canines flowed and twisted in the heat and humidity. At least the humans did. The dogs panted and waited for a head scratch during every downward dog pose or forward fold. The Washington Humane Society had three adoptable and adorable dogs for anyone who needed a "loaner."  They were also on hand to collect donations and offer canine counseling.

Bethany Meissner, adoption outreach coordinator of the Washington Humane Society, introduced her charges. There was Duncan, the gentleman of the group who was unflappable. There was Edith the athlete. She is a star in the "PACC" activities or People Animals and Cardio Club. And, of course, little April who charmed everyone.

Wilson brought her own dog, Sir Louis. He seemed to know exactly where to stand or lay for a head scratch and some love. Two very elegant poodles joined the session with their human. Hoover the silver poodle and Snuffalufacous ("Snuffy") won best dressed- Snuffy wore hair bows.

There were two dogs named "Mocha" in the mix and a "Cinderella." "Arwen" wandered off periodically to explore Rock Creek Park. There was a dog named "Beau" and a human named "Beau"!

Passersby stopped to stare, but they all smiled. A visitor to D.C. asked what was going on and was excited about trying Tranquil Space on a future trip. Families hurrying to temple had to stop too. And one bike rider halted mid pedal.

Wilson explained that the heat and humidity is actually good for the body to "open up." She seemed unperturbed and she led this very public class amid the homeless woman yelling unintelligible curses and the heat.  In fact, everyone was calm from pets to people.

The only break in concentration was when a DC police officer stopped his cruiser and approached. Is it illegal to do yoga with your dog in a park?  Are we disturbing the peace.  "No, No" Officer Antonial Atkins explained. He just wanted to introduce himself and hand out safety tips. He encouraged the group to keep their eyes out for suspicious activities in his Georgetown beat and not to hesitate to call him or any officer with their concerns.

Finally, after all that stretching and panting it was time for lunch! Doggy Style Bakery brought a cake for the dogs. Sir Louis tried to be first in line for the first and probably only bite! But Wilson saved the day and everyone got a slice!