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The Wonder Bar has announced Yappy Hour’s seasonal grand opening will be held from noon to 7 pm April 6 and 7 at the 1213 Ocean Ave venue.

The popular meet and greet for dogs and their owners returns with a few expanded amenities and benefits in support of animal organizations and charitable causes, organizers said in a written statement.

The seasonal grand opening will be held in support of Wonder Bar General Manager Debbie DeLisa’s Asbury Boardwalk Rescue, dedicated to the care of Asbury Park boardwalk cats and other neglected animals in the immediate area.

DeLisa and partner Lance Larson, a famed local musician, opened Wonder Bar in 2002. By 2006, DeLisa was using a then tiny outdoor deck on the side of the venue, located at 1213 Ocean Ave, to hold Yappy Hour events. It wasn’t long before the award-winning humanitarian expanded the area to bring pet owners and their four-legged friends together to not only enjoy the outdoor facility but to raise awareness for homeless and abused animals.

The idea for Yappy Hour, she said, was inspired by her love of animals and travels, particularly during her time studying abroad in Switzerland.

“I started Yappy Hour as a platform to hold fundraisers and bring awareness to rescues benefitting animals in need, while also building a strong comradery within a community of pet lovers by giving them the chance to socialize and meet up for a good cause,” DeLisa said.

Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar is know recognized across the globe, attracting as many as 400 furry visitors at a time, as well as local legend Bruce Springsteen. Its success made way for partnerships with other pet-friendly causes and organizations.

Among them is the popular Pugapoola, now in its sixth year. Founded by local police officer and Asbury Park Toy Drive creator Connie Breech, the event brings awareness to the breed and Pug Squad, a 501 c3 nonprofit. This year, the event will take place May 3 to May 5, featuring everything from a Pug Brunch to a Pink Pug Promenade.

This year, the Yappy Hour deck features twelve swimming pools for dogs, an agility course and a time out area for dogs who need space to unwind or to spend time with their owner getting used to the fun.

There’s also Summer Sundays, featuring live acoustic bands on the Yappy Deck. There is a $5 admission Friday through Sunday from Memorial Day Weekend to September, with proceeds benefiting Asbury Boardwalk Rescue.

The grand opening will feature food and drink specials and includes the sale of Yappy Hour 2019 seasonal passes for $60.

While the Yappy Hour deck is open to customers 21 and over only, there is a connected, fenced-in area with tables and chairs for those under 21

Yappy Hour opens with a limited schedule throughout April and May, launching full time in June. The hours of operation are as follows:

April and May:

4 to 7 pm Mondays for Small Dogs Only

4 to 8 pm Fridays for All Sized Dogs

Noon to 7 pm Saturday & Sunday for All Sized Dogs

June to September:

4 to 8 pm Mondays for Small Dogs Only

4 to 8 pm Tuesdays for Sized Dogs

4 to 8 pm Wednesdays for  Small Dogs Only

4 to 8 pm Thursdays & Fridays for All Sized Dogs

Noon to 8 pm Saturdays & Sundays for All Sized Dogs

Rules of Conduct:

All dogs must be neutered and have current proof of rabies vaccination. Choke, prong and

spike collars are not permitted, as well as toys or dog food. Owners are expected to pick up after their dogs as well as be diligent about watching them.

Doggie Bouncers are present to assist both animal and handler and to ensure all remain well mannered and abide by the rules.

Yappy Hour’s benefit schedule:

The April 6 and 7 Yappy Hour Seasonal Grand Opening Weekend, Noon-7pm $5 admission

benefitting Asbury Boardwalk Rescue

April 13 Bullypalooza 1-4pm [rain date April 20] benefitting the MidAtlantic Bulldog

Rescue, $10 admission

April 20 Pitties and Pals Rescue Benefit

April 27 Monmouth County SPCA Benefit

April 28 Associated Humane Society Tinton Falls Benefit

May 4 Pugapalooza: Main Event, 1-5pm $10 suggested donation

May 5 Pugapalooza: Pug Brunch and “Pink Pug Promenade”, 11am-2pm

May 11 Rescue Ridge Benefit

May 12 Marty's Place Rescue for Senior Dogs Benefit

May 18 Husky House Benefit

May 19 Skyland Sanctuary Benefit

May 25 Asbury Boardwalk Rescue Benefit

May 26 Little Paws Dachshund Rescue Benefit

June 1 Wag On Inn Rescue Benefit

For more about Yappy Hour, including weather and events updates, visit the Facebook page. For more about the Wonder Bar, visit wonderbarasburypark.com.

[Photos courtesy of Wonder Bar]

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