Long dogs race for shelter

Wieners and wiener wannabes will be off to the races Oct. 6 at the 12th annual “Wiener Takes All” benefit races for the Bella Vista Animal Shelter at Loch Lomond softball complex in Bella Vista.

The dachshund races will consist of up to 10 heats, with the “wiener” of each competing for the grand champion award in a final race. Heats are grouped by ages. Pre-registration for dachshunds is $20 before Sept. 21 or $25 day of, and owners are encouraged to solicit sponsorships. The male and female dachshund bringing in the most sponsorship money for the shelter will be named king and queen. Check-in for racers will begin at 10 a.m., with the first race starting at 11 a.m.

All other dog breeds — considered “wiener wannabes” — will race for free and in small and large categories. The free to the public event will also include vendor booths, a dog costume contest and lunch available for purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

The shelter’s mission “is to rescue and rehabilitate the homeless animals of the city of Bella Vista. We provide food, shelter and medical care for animals in need until they can be adopted into loving homes. These are animals that would otherwise be left to search for food and defend themselves against predators.”

Dee Dee Matney, executive director, said the shelter takes in 600 to 700 animals each year and has a very high reclaim or adoption rate.

Starting gate and race sponsorships are available for $100 and $200, respectively.

FILE PHOTO An estimated crowd of 500 showed to watch the third annual “Wiener Takes All” benefit dog races at the softball field on Glasgow Road in the Bella Vista Highlands. Now in it’s 12th year, event supports the Bella Vista Animal Shelter.