I had the pleasure of being part of the Dawg Days of Summer fundraiser at Alto Vineyards this weekend.
Being as this was only the second year for their now-annual fundraiser, there was a huge turnout, both for visitors, dogs, and vendors. I was with Saint Francis CARE no-kill animal shelter, with whom I've volunteered for the last year or so. We had a lucky duck draw, and I was doing pet portraits. We had a funky Hawaiian summer beach scene with a ton of funny props, and everyone had a really great time.
Dawg Days came about to 'bring awareness to the remarkable benefits our regional animal rescue organizations provide for us and our furry friends.' Every bit of donations given to the winery and admission price went to local shelters, The Angelina Foundation, Humane Society of Southern Illinois, Marion Animal Shelter, P.A.W.S. of Anna, Perry County Humane Society, St Francis CARE, Union County Animal Control, and Wright-Way Rescue, most of which had booths set up.
St Francis CARE of Murphysboro
Perry County Humane Society
PAWS of Anna
Humane Society of Southern Illinois
There were also booths by local vendors and artists, which were all fantastic and super creative.
Clay Lick Creek Pottery http://claylickcreekpottery.com/
Art and sculpture by Tom Horn of Cobden
Mario's Mama handmade healthy dog treats http://www.mariosmamapetbakery.com/
Funky Mutt collars and leashes https://www.etsy.com/shop/FunkyMutt
There was also some amazing smelling food by Pat's Barbecue and The Neighborhood Co-op. Blair's Saluki's showed up, and Greyhound Pets of America, as well as Howlin' For Hope.
Dawg Days started at 12:00, on a fantastic day, sunny and warm. Lots of people were sitting in the grass, at tables, on the veranda.....with dogs lazing around everywhere.
The music was great, we were situated right behind the stage.
The Rural Kings ( https://www.facebook.com/ruralkings )
Jenny & The Johnsons ( https://www.facebook.com/jennyandthejohnsonspage )
Storm Crows ( https://www.facebook.com/stormcrowsbluegrass )
Whistle Pigs ( https://www.facebook.com/thewhistlepigs ) (who I particularly enjoyed)
A beautiful selection of wine rounded out the adult favors, and for kids there were puppies, duck games, face painting (which my friend Tina and I took advantage of), and even a bounce house.
I will definitely be heading to this event again next year, either as a participant or visitor. I would love to lounge with my dogs in the grass, drinking wine and listening to awesome music all afternoon! Keep an eye on Alto Vineyards web and facebook page for next years event!
Alto Vineyards
8515 Hwy 127, Alto Pass, Illinois 62905
(618) 893-4898
https://www.facebook.com/AltoVineyards
http://altovineyards.net/
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