Pup-corn flows at first-ever Doggie Drive-In

Dog owners usually take their dog out to the park then cuddle up and watch a movie, but Saturday they had a chance to do both at the same time.

The first-ever Doggie Drive-In was held at Parkdale Park in west Ottawa, featuring a screening of Maramaduke as a way to help pets and their owners socialize.

"It's a nice change from sitting at home watching a movie with your dog to actually being outside and being able to do it in a group setting,” said Sue Haywood.

“I thought it was great fun to bring the popcorn outside to the park and enjoy a nice evening outside."

“This year one of our major sponsors, Global Pet Food, asked us if we could do a movie night for dogs,” said Jeff Leiper of the Hintonburg Community Association. “We thought about it for a short bit and said ‘That sounds like a lot of fun.’"

Dog-owners said they knew their four-legged friends appreciated it.

"Just those eyes, they look at you with all that love and trust and you melt,” said Gail Baker-Gregory. “They need you as much as you need them."

The movie was free, but donations and proceeds from activities such as nail clipping and pet photography went to Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation.

That organization said their work helping giant breed dogs with special needs has its unique challenges.

"We have a Great Dane right now in our program that requires a leg amputation,” said Gwendilin Boers.

“We've had some new rescues come in including an English Mastiff that we'll need to fully vet, so the proceeds will go to vet bills."

With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Katie Griffin