Dogs to Model Latest Fashions at Tea PartyBy Renee Burrell
Turn to November on you and your dog's social calendar. The 2nd Annual "Biscuits & Tea" Dog fashion show and Tea Party to benefit Pet Pal Rescue has been scheduled for November 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. The show will take place at the Tree House Garden, 434 Virginia Lane, Dunedin. The fashion show and tea party for dogs and their owners debuted last year and raised over $2,500 for Pet Pals and resulted in three dog adoptions. Candice Looney Marcum, the event's founder, said she was inspired to start an annual event to benefit homeless dogs due to the love she receives from the three she rescued. "I often say it was not me who rescued my dogs, they are the ones who rescued me. They wait each day at my front door with their tails wagging to greet me. They don't care if I am grumpy from a bad day, sad, mad, late, or happy. They are always there and always full of love. I think it is important to give back, but to give back sincerely to something that you have a strong passion for---thus the beginning of this event." Remarking on last year's success, Marcum said, "We tried our best to make our guests feel like they were at a show from fashion week with a formal runway for the dogs, great music, etc…." Food will be served on fine china and silver and will include a selection of fine teas, coffees, punch, scones and biscuits for pet owners. Dogs will be treated to their own buffet with bones and biscuits, many from all-natural ingredients. Last year's event attracted 150 non-sponsors and about 35 dogs. "We did not have one dog accident or issue, it was great! We had little dogs from 2 lbs to dogs that weighed over 180 lbs! And a great deal of last year's attendants want to model this year." Marcum chose Pet Pals to be the beneficiary of her event because she said, "My goal for this event was to find a local shelter or animal cause that could use our support, and I found Pet Pals. Pet Pals is such a loving and grassroots type organization, I felt them a perfect fit. I wanted to make sure that the money we raised did not just got to pay for stationery, or mailing but that it actually made a difference for local animals." My Pet's Dream Boutique of Clearwater will be outfitting models for the show. Garments and accessories for dogs will be available for purchase from numerous local vendors such as dog accessories, natural dog treats, collars, and leashes. Wardrobes for all occasions, like holiday wear, tea wear, beach wear, and sports wear will be available. Special sales on many items will be offered throughout the event. "All attending participants will get discounted items from our vendors. We will also be raffling great prizes," stated Marcum. Veternarians, groomers, dog sitters, and anyone involved in working with dogs, may wish to attend the dog lover's fundraiser for the networking opportunity. Said Marcum, "We would love to have them! "Biscuits & Tea" is a great place to meet dog lovers, which could only help their business. In addition, we are still looking for sponsors to spread the word about their businesses and help the cause." Cat owners and people who care for other animals should attend also. Marcum said, "Although we don't have cats in the fashion show, we'll have pictures of them and bunnies and hamsters that are up for adoption. The vendors at the event also cater to cats, and Pet Pals help all animals." If you're thinking about what to wear, formal tea dress is optional for both dogs and owners. "Attendees can wear anything they choose," said Looney. "As this is an afternoon garden tea party, you can wear your wide brimmed hat, pearls and white gloves. Last year we had everything from tea dresses to shorts and flip flops- as it is open to the public, we are open- but would love for people to have fun with it!" Marcum plans to hold the fashion show and tea party yearly and hopes each year will surpass the last in funds raised. "Each year I hope to grow this event, and continually raise money for local non-profit animal causes that need the community's support. My dream is that one day we won't just raise thousands, but can raise the funds to help build buildings, spay and neutering clinics and retired animal farms to truly make a difference locally." Dogs to model the latest fashions and people to walk dogs up for adoption down the runway are still needed. Contact Candice Looney Marcum at 727-462-2308 to volunteer or for more information.
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