WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Balboa Winery in Walla Walla has scheduled its second annual Best in Show Dog Show on June 14 as a fundraiser for the Blue Mountain Humane Society.
From a competitive standpoint, organizers describe it as “slightly irreverent.” Instead, it’s designed as a way for dog lovers to gather on the winery’s lawn, enjoy wine and food while raising money and awareness for the Walla Walla Valley’s less fortunate critters.
“Here at Balboa Winery, dogs are an integral part of our winery family,” Amy Glase, managing partner for 4,000-case winery, said in a news release. “We have rescued several dogs from the local Humane Society and love to be able to give back to this wonderful organization whenever we can. We had a blast with this event last year and are excited for it to really grow into its own this year.”
Andrae’s Kitchen will return to serve up hot dog-inspired fare all afternoon to be enjoyed with Tom Glase’s wines. There also will be a wine auction including library selections from other Walla Walla Valley wineries.
Last year’s inaugural pageant drew 60 contestants. This year, organizers continue to invite dogs of any shape, size and pedigree to compete in front of celebrity judges for honors such as Most Handsome, Goldie Oldie (ages 7 and up), Best Rescue Dog, Best Puppy (ages 1 and younger), Best Trick, Best Catch, Best Toy Dog, Most Creative Grooming and Looks Most Like Owner.
Entry fee is $25 per canine, and owners may enter their best friend in the category of their choice. The master receives a glass of wine, a custom set of dog tags and a chance at either notoriety or bragging rights. Customized T-shirts, wine and other items are available for owners and attendees.
All proceeds go to the Blue Mountain Humane Society, which will have representatives at Balboa throughout the day with adoptable puppies while providing information about the shelter’s operations.
New this year is a live art auction. Throughout the event, guests will be able to help create a custom piece of art that will be auctioned off to the highest bidder at the end of the dog show.
Those wishing to participate may visit Balboa’s event page to download the entry form, by stopping by the winery at 4169
Peppers Bridge Road or the Blue Mountain Humane Society at 7 George Street, by emailing info@balboawinery.com, or by calling the winery at (509) 529-0461.
For additional information on the event, contact Michael Mettler of Achieva Marketing Group at 509-629-1549.
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