Rescue dogs dazzle with high-flying stunts
Dogs rescued from across the country go from homeless to high-flying with K9s in Flight, which will host daily performances at the fair this year.
| 19 Jul 2024 | 09:22
Children line up to pet the dogs after the show.
Kids cheer and clap for K9s in flight at the fair.
K9s in flight, a team of talented resue dogs known for their impressive aerial stunts, will return to the NJ State Fair again this year with daily performances.
The shows promise entertainment while championing an important cause: the need for pet adoption.
Led by founder John Misita, K9s in Flight brings together rescue dogs from around the country to showcase their skills through frisbee catching and dock diving routines.
“They were homeless, and now they’re literally high flying,” said Misita. “They love doing it. And we love doing it. And we are spreading a good message.”
More than just performers, the K9s in Flight dogs are family: performing, traveling, eating, and sleeping together. “The dogs are like our kids,” Misita said. “To do frisbee, you need to have a relationship with your dog. You have to practice, play a lot, and keep it positive.”
Before a dog enters the spotlight, an announcer shares the rescue’s story with the audience. Cayenne, for example, was found as a puppy behind an empty warehouse with her mother and siblings. Now, she travels around the country as one of the stars of the show.
After each performance, K9s in flight brings out the dogs to give audience members the opportunity to to pet them and take pictures.
Dog years of fun
Misita has been performing for over 20 years and recalls his first show at the New Jersey State Fair about 10 years ago.
“The dogs are a staple here,” said Joan Snook Smith, president of the fair. “It’s a feel-good show.”
K9s in flight has performed far and wide, but the fair is special to Misita.
“I toured with The Greatest Show on Earth for two years. I toured with Animal Planet. So when I say this has become one of my favorite shows, that’s saying a lot.”
Aside from the dynamic entertainment value, the show emphasizes the great need for pet adoption and the urgent need to address pet overpopulation.
“Being out there performing with your best friend... there’s nothing better,” Misita said.
“If you take anything from our show, consider adopting a pet and saving a life.”
K9s in Flight will perform daily at the Family Entertainment Area at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.