The games have ended in China, but the 2008 Olympics continue through this weekend right here at N.C. State. This time though, the athletes are of the canine variety.

This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., N.C. State’s College of Veterinary Medicine will host its seventeenth Annual Dog Olympics at the University Club located at 4200 Hillsborough Street. “This event is meant to be a fun community family event, but it also promotes responsible pet ownership and supports local rescue groups,” Joan Hunt, a student at the College of Veterinary Medicine who is helping out at the event this year, said.

The Dog Olympics is mostly for amateurs. Dog owners wishing to compete with their pet in an event sign up on site. Admission is $1 for spectators and $6 for dogs. This admission fee covers entry for one event and a photo of your dog in the winner’s circle. Each additional event and photo is $1.

There will be a free microchip clinic sponsored by the Raleigh Kennel Club on site on Saturday. Trained personnel will painlessly implant a microchip just under the skin right behind the dog’s shoulders that can be scanned with a handheld device to help return lost dogs to their owner. Cynthia Willson, a second year veterinary student and member of the Raleigh Kennel Club, is overseeing the booth. Willson said that these microchips are a good idea because, “collars can fall off. Microchips are an excellent way to get your dog back if your dog is ever lost.” The Kennel Club is only donating 100 chips, so make sure to get your dog there early. The microchips are limited to one per family.

Games will include doggie limbo, musical sit, best beggar, best pet trick, Frisbee toss, doggie high jump, longest tail, wiener toss, “Roll Over Beethoven,” and a howling contest.

Come out Saturday and help support the College of Veterinary Medicine Student Chapter of the American Animal Hospital Association, as well as local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Bring your friends and family, and get your dog involved. Who knows? Your pooch may turn out to be a “Fido Phelps.”