March 19, 2024

Annual Wesley Minister Dog Show returns to Park Centre Saturday

Public encouraged to attend

The annual Wesley Minster Dog Show will return to Park Centre Saturday with creative dog costumes and entertaining tricks.

In its third year, Park Centre along with the Jasper County Animal Rescue League invites the public to dress up their furry friends and enter them into four contests all while supporting a local cause.

The free event is set for 10 a.m. to noon in Park Centre’s Courtyard. Registration is at 9 a.m. The contest will also include door prizes, a bake sale and trophies for the winners of the show. All proceeds from the bake sale will go to JCARL.

Park Centre activities director Stacie Madole said the event, which was once just for residents and employees, has turned into a public affair.

“I came up with the dog show because I have 4-H in my background and I showed dogs. I also was the superintendent of the cat show at the Jasper County Fair,” Madole said. “When I brought the dog show to Park Centre it was a huge hit, and it has gotten even bigger since its first year.”

Marole said last year was the first year they teamed up with JCARL. The event will also feature the co-owner of Pet Kingdom, Sharon Wallway, as the contest’s judge.

“Last year the event brought in over $200 and we are hoping to do more this year,” Madole said. “The animal rescue league will also bring six dogs that are up for adoption.”

Pet owners can enter their dogs into four contest categories including best dressed, best look-a-like, best trick and the happiest hound. There will also be a best in show trophy, which could be given to the same pup.

“The best part is seeing all of the costumes and people’s ideas,” Madole said. “You never know what you’re going to see.”

Madole said the residents at Park Centre enjoy interacting with children and dogs, and both will be guaranteed at the event.

“We hope the event will continue to grow and the word will continue to get out,” Madole said. “People love dressing up their dogs and the event allows attendees to mingle with residents as well as put a spotlight on our rescue league.”

A handful of local businesses donated door prizes such as Fine Things Reclaimed, Silverado Jewelry and the Newton Animal Clinic.

Park Centre will be taking donations of litter, canned cat and dog food and laundry soap on the day of the dog show to benefit JCARL.

The dog show will be on the northeast side of Park Centre in the courtyard. Street parking will be available around Park Centre and on the west side of the building.

Contact Kayla Singletary at
641-792-3121 ext. 6533
or ksingletary@newtondailynews.com