Stylish pups stepped out for the Washington Humane Society’s annual black-tie soiree.
David Catania, Marie Drissel, Lisa LaFontaine and Jack Evans (Photo credit WHS)
It’s an event that Washington pet owners look forward to all year, the only black-tie gala in town that encourages four-legged friends to attend. The 28th annual Bark Ball, held at the Washington Hilton, raised more than $615,000 for the Washington Humane Society and drew approximately 1,000 guests and around 500 of their furry companions.
Dogs dressed in their best black-tie attire (Photo by Moshe Zusman Photography)
The pooches were pampered at the festive pre-dinner reception, with Perrier-filled water dishes and gourmet treats from Barkley Square. The humans enjoyed an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and chatting about their pets with other canine caretakers, who proudly escorted pups dressed in tuxedos, tutus, top hats, bows, bandannas and more. All enjoyed a dog-friendly photo station set up to capture the moment.
Table set for first course with sponsor animal info and Chia pet centerpiece (Photo by Erica Moody)
As guests noshed on vegan cuisine and dogs rested at their feet, Washington Humane Society CEO Lisa LaFontaine made remarks and the live auction got underway. Items included first class valet at the end of the night, a round-trip vacation to London, a football fan’s dream getaway package and a private Diageo whiskey tasting.
On the tables, each place setting included information about animals in need of sponsors (mine was a cat named Raleigh) and the Chia pet centerpieces were available for purchase.
WHS board member Donald Hoffman (Photo by Moshe Zusman Photography)
The Washington Humane Society was founded in 1870, and provides comfort and care to more than 51,000 animals annually. So far this year, they’ve saved 90% of the animals at their shelters.
Visit support.washhumane.org for details on ways to get involved and more upcoming events.
