DogFest April 13, 2013

DogFest is a celebration of dogs and kids benefiting SFUSD McKinley Elementary School, a K-5 public school at Castro and 14th Streets. In just six years this one-of-a-kind festival has grown from an intimate neighborhood affair into the biggest dog event in San Francisco, attracting canine lovers from all over the Bay Area and thrilling attendees of all ages.

DogFest offers something for dogs, kids and parents of both breeds. Enter your dog in an “everyday dog show,” with contests for Best Trick, Best Costume, Best Coat, Best Ears and other categories. Local celebrity dog show judges include Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Go’s and Nigel Twist of the Alarm. This year features the new addition of an “openly corrupt” dog show, where attendees are encouraged to bribe their way into winning the Best in Show prize.

Treat your human child to a day of jumpy houses, face painting, carnival games and delicious food in the Kid Kennel. All proceeds offset the continued cuts to public education funding and directly help McKinley children.

Everyone is invited to watch or join in the canine contests, catch a show by the Busy Bee Dogs, make a bid on an auction prize, and buy a ticket for the grand prize raffle. Children’s activities, including carnival games and face painting, take place during the entire festival. Dog lovers can take a stroll through aisles full of canine vendors and load up free samples and prizes. Or find true love in the Dog Rescue Zone.