LOS ANGELES — “Ladies and Gentlemen, the moment you have all been waiting for is about to begin! On your mark… get set… go!”
The announcer’s voice was cut off as the sound of eight padded feet began to rapidly slap the ground. Remy the corgi and Rex, a spaniel mix, rocketed forward in a mad dash for the finish line. Tongues lolling and ears flopping, the pair seemed oblivious to the cheering fans that flanked their runway.
“Well see here folks, it looks like Remy is the winner of this round!” The victorious pup pranced happily in a circle while being smothered with congratulatory pets.
This was Dogtoberfest, a festival held every weekend of October on South Botanical Garden’s sprawling green landscape. Drawing in lovers of booze, live music, and man’s best friend, the event was started in 2024 to bring new visitors into the park. A year later and the garden’s website claimed it was back, “bigger, better and barkier” than before.
Inspired by the iconic Bavarian tradition, Dogtoberfest offers free beer tastings, giant salted pretzels, and limitless views of canines in lederhosens. Unlike the German festival, however, it also presents the opportunity to bring home your very own new furry friend.
Shaland Leach had first heard about the pup-centric event from a long-time foster and friend who happened to work at the gardens. As the founder of her very own dog rescue non-profit, The Ruff Project, Leach was immediately intrigued by the festival’s concept. Although currently fostering several mini horses and a goat, she also had 13 dogs at home that needed a forever home.
“We have six dogs available for adoption a day. These guys range from puppies to one nine-year-old blind dog that we have here today”.
Bringing a group of her adoptables to each day of Dogtoberfest gave festival goers the opportunity to meet with a potential future family member. Leach noted it was only through such a caring community that she was able to rehome so many of her stray animals.
“That’s the only way that we can keep going. It’s the support from fosters and donations and even just kind words. It’s the hardest work, but the most rewarding thing in the world”.
For Karla Korson, the owner of race-winning Remy, it was also the sense of community that had brought her to South Botanical Garden on Saturday, Oct. 25.
“Getting Remy out and interacting with other dogs has definitely been my favorite part. It’s a great way to get out and be social.”
Korson had similarly heard about the event from a friend and neighbor. A self proclaimed dog-person, she was excited by the prospect of Remy getting to safely interact with other leashed pups. She was also enticed by the beautiful foliage and scenery provided by the gardens.
“Living in L.A., people love to complain about the lack of nature. But if you just do a little bit of a drive you can go out and find that nature pretty quick”.
Patricia Mendez, a resident of nearby Torrance, agreed, adding that, “We’ve really enjoyed sitting outside and being around all the other dogs. Just listening to the band and the races have been fun”.
Her lanky dachshund, Chilli Dog, basked contentedly in the sun. Patricia had also brought two family friends to Dogtoberfest, a far cry from their home country of South Africa. The trio did note that the festival could make several improvements going forward.
“I think they should have more vendors here. You have a captive audience of people who are dog lovers and all want to spend money on a lot of nice things. I was a little disappointed there weren’t more booths,” said Mendez.
Overall, however, the abundance of wagging tails and cheerful voices made it clear this celebration had brought joy to humans and pups alike. Whether guests leave with just a smile or a new furry friend, Dogtoberfest has something to offer for dog lovers across Los Angeles.
