Over 100 people attended the posh event in Lake Worth, Florida. They take their dogs and couture very seriously and to a level most dog owners never even knew existed. In the words of my favorite Justin Timberlake song, “It’s Not a Bad Thing”. Some of these pampered pooches hail from meager beginnings in puppy mills, shelters, and as strays. On this special Saturday evening, they donned original gowns and tuxedoes ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Their owners also got into the festivities and were dressed to the nines, and beyond.
Similar to Hollywood, the evening began with a red carpet entrance, complete with step and repeat wall for the pup-a-razzi. There were over twenty vendors on “Bark Avenue”,:designers, accessories, holistic treats, and even some human goodies, too. There was a cocktail hour with barkaritas for the furry guests, provided by Doggie Bag Café. “I was amazed at the elaborate couture, workmanship and the aroma of the meal being prepared - then I found out that was for the dogs”, stated Lori Withrow, dog mom to three. The sign at check in read, “No Fur Mama Drama”.
Almost seventy dogs were presented to society. Several others had other jobs. Gianna, a Shih Tzu served as the hostess, adorned in her original Vienna Couture burgundy gown and tiara. Rat terrier Chef Eddie helped prepare and serve three courses to the canine guests. Mr. Spot, a Shiba Inu who is the coverdog on the current issue of The New Barker magazine, served as one of the judges. And then there was international celebridog, and New York resident, Pink Dog Frankie from MTV. His unique magenta color comes from beet juice.
Spot’s translator, Sally Potter was joined on the judges’ panel by Sherry Frankel, proprietress of Melangerie, on Worth Avenue; Ms. Florida American Renaissance 2014 – Kelly Wagner; Val Butler of Coral Gables; Miss Miami USA 2015 - Ana Perez. Tucker, a dashingly handsome border collie is not only a cancer survivor and therapy dog, he was named Mr. Cotillion 2014. Adorned in her powder blue lace gown English bulldog, Frances was named Miss Cotillion 2014. She swapped out her pillbox hat for a sparkling tiara. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue. Organizers are already planning their next event. Hoo boy.