First annual BarkFest brings dogs and owners for fun and fundraising in Winnipeg

The inaugural BarkFest took place over the weekend at the Red River Exhibition grounds, offering a variety of activities and entertainment as well as an indoor market, with part of the proceeds going towards local rescue groups.

“People want to show off their dogs, their dogs are like their family so they’re just excited to come out and have fun,” said Sherri Rheubottom, co-producer of Bark Fest. “The fundraising recipients this year are Manitoba Muts, K9 advocacy group, and Manitoba Underdogs.”

“Manitoba Underdogs takes in a lot of sick and injured dogs, so our medical bills cover a lot of that, that’s why they’re high, so that money will go right back towards dogs that are needing medical attention,” said Jackie Martin, home visit lead at Manitoba Underdogs Rescue.

Fashion shows, contests, photo ops, education booths, food and games were all part of the fun. Event organizer Rheubottom says the turnout shattered expectations, with around 6,000 people coming out to the two-day event, despite some rainy weather.

“We have been so overwhelmed with all the love and support, and people are so excited, even in the rain yesterday people were coming out,” said Rheubottom. “We couldn’t believe how many people and dogs and they didn’t care about the rain they were having fun, and today there’s even more people so we’re excited because all the outdoor activities without the rain are a bit more fun.”