Beaster the surfing dog (Frank Martinez/KXAN)

Austin, TX – Dogs are praised all over the world for their quirky ways, intelligence, and ability to learn and be trained, but have you ever heard of a dog that taught himself how to surf? For the last seven years, Beaster, a black bundle of joy, has been enjoying the sport of surfing with owner Cortney Hope. Beaster has earned the nickname “the surfing dog” for his ability and eagerness to climb onto Hope’s surfboard and have himself an experience most dogs will never have.

Hope and Beaster surfed in a Texas lake for the Austin Humane Society event fundraiser called “Martinis and Bikinis” on Sunday, July 31, which was sponsored by Austin Event Stylists, Social Ding, Austin Boats & Motors, Hydrotunes Sound Systems, Austin Surf Company and Miss High Life. The fundraiser took place at Wahoo’s Fish Taco’s on Rio Grande, with charitable tickets on sale for $5. Proceeds were to benefit the Austin Humane Society.

Cortney Hope has always been a surfer, taking to the sport with ease. On a day just like any other, Beaster decided he had to see for himself what surfing was all about. “He one day decided he wanted to jump up on the back of the board when I was surfing, so were like, ‘Well, maybe we can do something with this,’” said Hope. Since then, Hope and Beaster have been enjoying surfing together as often as possible. “My life has always been surfing and hanging out on the lake and stuff, and I’ve had him for the last seven years,” said Hope. “Ever since then, he goes out surfing with me and chills on the board when I surf.”

The Austin Humane Society has been no-kill since 1952 and is Austin’s largest, longest standing non-profit animal shelter. They have made it their mission to eliminate unnecessary euthanasia of dogs and cats through; innovative life-saving adoption programs, high-volume spay and neuter programs, engaging the community to be part of the solution, and serving animals and people in times of crisis.