Party! Time for Portland's Biggest Dog Wash

© K&K Graphics

© K&K Graphics

Every year, one of the most popular pet-friendly events provides the perfect grand finale of summer pet events.  Sept. 22, the streets close around Lucky Lab Brewpub at 9th and Hawthorne, vendors open shop, and the taps are ON for Portland’s biggest dog wash.  Rounding out the good times are games and live music — altogether creating a fun, festive atmosphere and a perfect way for pets and their peeps to wrap a great summer.

Dog baths are a $10 suggested donation; all proceeds support the animal blood bank program at DoveLewis, the Northwest’s nonprofit 24 hour emergency and ICU animal hospital.  One of the largest volunteer-based programs of its kind in the nation, Dove’s animal blood bank boasts both feline and canine donors.  Animals sometimes require transfusions just like humans do, and blood and plasma collected through the program are used not only in emergency situations at the hospital, but are also provided to other veterinary practices throughout Oregon and SW Washington.  

© K&K Graphics

© K&K Graphics

While feline donors live at the hospital, canine donors are all volunteers from the community, donating blood and plasma quarterly to help other animals in need.  DoveLewis calls these volunteer donors Superheroes for the live-saving gift they provide.  Have you got a Superhero at home?  Learn more about the program at DoveLewis Blood Bank.

The Dogtoberfest day-long dog wash and street fair is a great time for everyone in the family.  The festivities run 11-5 Saturday Sept. 22 at Lucky Lab Brew Pub, 915 SE Hawthorne.  Local band, Jamblers, kicks off the festivities at 11am, and The Tulies take the stage at 2.