Galveston, TX – It was paws, waves, and plenty of wagging tails this past Saturday as four-legged surfers made a splash at the 12th Annual Ohana Surf Dog Competition on Galveston’s 27th Street Beach.
This year was the biggest yet, with a record-breaking crowd of nearly 1,000 beach loving spectators cheering on the largest group of canine competitors in the event’s history — 36 dogs of all shapes, sizes, and surfing skill levels.
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From seasoned boarders to first-timers, the beach was packed with pups ready to ride the waves, all to raise funds for the Galveston Island Humane Society.
Crowd favorites & furry champs
Among the competitors were local legends and rising stars:
🐾 Tito’s Spirit Award: Jasper, a 10-year-old tiny dappled Chihuahua and first-time surfer, who may not have caught the biggest wave but certainly captured the most hearts.
🐾 Kahuna Top Dog + Small Dog Champion: Poopie Johnson, a tan Chihuahua and “Galveston Island local legend” with Team Poopie merch at local surf shops.
🐾 Big Dog Champion: Bluey, a Blue Heeler therapy dog from Houston.
Underdog inspiration
Fifi, a pittie/bulldog mix recently rescued from a ditch by Houston-based nonprofit Three Little Pitties Rescue, gave surfing a solid try despite being new to the sport. Though not a trophy winner, Fifi’s story and determination left a lasting impression on the crowd.
More than just surf
The Ohana Surf Dog Competition, hosted by GIHS and Ohana Surf & Skate, isn’t just about canine cuteness on surfboards. It’s a key fundraiser for the Galveston Island Humane Society, with proceeds going toward adoption programs, spay/neuter services, and emergency medical care for homeless pets.
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Tito’s Handmade Vodka returned as the title sponsor for the eighth consecutive year, continuing its Vodka for Dog People initiative — a partnership dedicated to improving pet welfare in the community.
Surf highlights: Watch the videos
Couldn’t make it to the beach? No problem — here’s a look at some of the tail-wagging action from this year’s Ohana Surf Dog Competition.
The winner: Bluey doing big dog things
More surfing goodness
We couldn’t catch every pup on camera, but check out more clips of surfing dogs doing their thing.
Get involved
Want to help out or adopt your own surf pup? Learn more about GIHS programs and how to get involved at www.galvestonhumane.org.
