Adoptable dogs will take to the runway at a new fashion gala geared towards dog adoption and fundraising for Metro Vancouver dog rescue societies.
The first of its kind for Langley fashion show is taking place April 1 at Thunderbird Show Park from 4 to 7 p.m.
Hosted by Bagheera Boutique and Cranberries Naturally, both out of Fort Langley, Couture for Paws will have adoptable dogs and models strut the runway, all as a charity fundraiser for dog rescue societies LEASH and LAPS.
Bagheera Boutique, which opened its second location this past August, sells medium to high-end European brands like Laurel, Brax and Vince.
The inspiration to host this type of fundraiser came from Victoria — the original store’s location —where a fashion show with adoptable dogs was held at a menswear store.
“We are always involved with the community in Victoria, and wanted to do something special and annually in our [Fort Langley] location, and this was an enthusiastic yes from Karlene, our manager, the team and the community,” said co-owner Anton Solonnikov, from Victoria.
“We are new to the community of Fort Langley and one thing we’ve noticed is this village is very walkable, with a lot of foot traffic and locals out walking their dogs. It’s a dog community for sure,” said Karlene Bullock. “I have a dog and a cat myself so our connection to our pets is strong.”
Both Langley Animal Protection Society and LEASH Animal Welfare Society, were equally enthusiastic. They will be bringing up to 10 dogs that are ready to show their best side on the runway in hopes of connecting with a potential new forever home.
“It’s a great way for people to meet animals and seeing those dogs will tug at the heart strings,” said Bullock. At the similar fundraiser held in Victoria, most of the dogs found homes from the show, she noted.
There has been a great response in the business community as well, with Cranberries Naturally helping organize the event, Thunderbird Show Park donating the space and Wendel’s Café in Fort Langley providing desserts.
“The community has been so supportive of this event and the cause. I’m thinking this will turn into an annual fundraiser,” she said.
Along with the adorable and adoptable canines, some of the fashions being showcased on the runway will be local too, said Bullock.
The models will be wearing jewelry, belts and scarves made by local designers, she said.
EVENT DETAILS
Couture for Paws is April 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Thunderbird Showpark. Tickets are $75, with 125 tickets available for purchase online at EventBrite or at Bagheera Boutique. All proceeds go to both dog societies.
ABOUT LEASH
LEASH Animal Welfare Society is a B.C. non-profit dog-rescue society. They work with all breeds and ages of dogs across Canada, and internationally. They do not have a shelter facility, but rather rely on our incredible network of foster parents who open up their hearts and homes to a dog in need, and help them get their new LEASH on life.
ABOUT LAPS
Since 2003, the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS) has worked hard to make the welfare of the shelter animals its top priority. LAPS’ mandate is to promote the physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing of companion animals in Langley. LAPS’s animal enrichment programs reduce stress and keep the animals healthier and happier while they wait for new homes. Thorough adoption procedures ensure that LAPS dogs and cats find the best possible homes.
BELOW: These adorable dogs are ready for their furever home and will be strutting their stuff down the runway at the Couture for Paws fundraiser.
