Friends and supporters of Donte’s Den took the floor on Saturday night with a benefit for the new dog sanctuary. Top Dog, a spoof of the Westminster Dog show featured several categories of competition from Best Dressed to
Sit, Stay and Whatever, and Human-Dog Look-A-Like. John Scalzi of WWSB and a rotating roster of judges presided over the and Best Owner Dog Look-A-Like at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium.
Attendees were treated to hors d’oeuvres and delectable entrees from restaurants in the Sarasota Fresh Originals including the dog-friendly Polo Grill’s tuna tartar wonton tacos which may possibly be the best thing we’ve ever eaten. Madfish Grill also a local favorite served up delicious fresh mahi tacos.
Donte’s Den is a nonprofit organization that will provide lifetime care for dogs whose owners are no longer able to care for them, dogs whose owners have been deployed in the military and even abandoned dogs. An overview of the project and its plans were revealed in a charming video featuring an animated version of founder Marsha Panucci’s longtime canine pal, Donte.
What was so great about last night was how unquestionably welcome the dogs were at the event. What happens when dogs are around? 
Complete strangers smile and say hello and strike up a conversation. People meet people, talk to each other and make friends. Ms. Panucci and her team created an environment that was ideal for highlighting her project among people who are most likely to support the cause.
If you’d like to learn more or make a donation to this local sanctuary for dogs, please visit Dontes Den. For more pictures, please see our gallery here!
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