Dogs and beer-lovers alike are invited to attend Kanawha County Humane Association's second annual Kegs 4 K9s fundraiser Saturday at Shawnee Park in Dunbar.
Proceeds directly benefit animals at the shelter by providing lifesaving medical treatment, micro-chipping, pet retention counseling, spay and neuter services for low-income families, and the Pet Food Bank, according to shelter officials.
"We became a life-saving shelter in 2013 and it's extremely expensive to operate that way" said Jessie Shafer, KCHA's director of development. A life-saving shelter does not euthanize for time or space constraints.
The shelter recently hired a full-time veterinarian to staff its spay and neuter suite. They expect the addition to save them about $40,000 a year.
Those who attend are invited to bring their friendly, leashed pups and enjoy a variety of craft and traditional beers, including a peanut butter beer on tap from Morgantown Brewing Company.
Local food vendors will also take part in the beer festival including Rollin Smoke BBQ, Sugar Pie Bakery, Bridge Road Bistro, a food truck by Ward Harshbarger, Kettle Corn and Concession King.
There will be live performances by Greathouse, Beggars Clan and The Company Stores throughout the event and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the entertainment.
"Last year it rained but people stuck it out" said Shafer. She said the turnout last year was incredible and extremely helpful to the shelter. "We just hope people come out. We do need the help."
Tickets are available for purchase at www.adoptcharleston.com. General admission tickets, including three 16-ounce beers, are $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
A limited amount of VIP tickets remain and include three 16-ounce beer as well as one-hour early access, exclusive craft beers, VIP tent access with a live performance by Mike Pushkin, glassware and a T-shirt. VIP tickets are only available in advance for $50.
KCHA will also be selling "in dog beers, I've only had one" T-shirts and koozies.
The event is presented by Suddenlink and sponsored by Capitol Beverage Company.
Reach Jennifer Gardner
at jennifer.gardner@wvgazettemail.com, 304-348-5102 or follow
@jennc_gardner on Twitter.