It’s in a dog’s nature to enjoy the hunt and a hunt for Easter eggs is no exception.

The Winnetka Park District offered a seasonal mingling for area dogs and their owners – inviting them to hunt for treat-filled eggs and get their picture taken with the bunny on Saturday, March 23.

Winnetka Park District Board President Christina Codo said this year marks the return of the Doggy Egg Hunt, the first time back since 2019.

“We’ve had the annual tradition of our kid’s egg hunt each spring, but this is a special event for our local canine friends,” Codo said. “Dogs bring people together and this is a great opportunity to just come out to enjoy beautiful West Elm Park, meet neighbors and make new friends and come together for the start of spring.”

The free event ran from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., with separate hunt times for small and large dogs.

All participants received a coupon for a dog beach pass, eggs filled with bacon treats and the chance to find the egg stuffed with the golden ticket to win the doggy gift basket prize.

Dimitri Michaels of Winnetka attended with family.

“We just moved to the area and so we are here to socialize and to learn about the suburban area dog scene,” Michaels said.

Stephanie Rubalcava attended Saturday with her dog Winter O’Maley.

“We just love the chance to come out and meet other dogs in town, and really any excuse to a step away from winter towards spring is exhilarating especially in the sunshine,” Rubalcava said.

Gina Grillo is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.