JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Jacksonville Landing announced on Monday it will host a monthly Yappy Hour -- an event open to dogs of all breeds and their owners. The event will take place on the third Sunday of every month from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. beginning on March 15, 2009.

“One of our merchants actually brought up the idea of having a Yappy Hour,” said Rachel Nudge, director of public relations for The Jacksonville Landing. “It’s a great idea because the Landing Courtyard is dog-friendly as long as the pets are kept on their leashes and because there are very few events that people can attend with their dogs.”

Highlighted by live entertainment with the George Aspinal Band, the event will take place in the Courtyard and include a Pet Expo with displays set up by local and regional pet-oriented companies. Landing merchants are offering drink specials for the duration of the event to include such drinks as the “Poodle Colada,” the “Mutt-a-rita,” and the “Bloodhound Mary.”

All Yappy Hour guests will sign in and be entered to win prizes given throughout the event. Prizes range from $150 in cash to gift certificates and pet supply shopping sprees.