Spencer Sacks
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Old Mill District hosted the inaugural Second Saturday Paws and Pints event on Saturday, a new pet-focused gathering designed for the local community. The event featured dog-specific vendors, food trucks and activities ranging from live music to specialized spa care.
Modeled after the First Friday tradition, the recurring event was established through a multiyear planning process involving the Old Mill District and the co-founders from Greggs Grill and Hungry Hound. The gathering aims to celebrate Bend’s identity as a pet-friendly city while providing specialized services for four-legged friends.
The gathering featured dog runners, treat vendors and dog-specific food trucks. Bryan Du Toit, owner of Hungry Hound, helped organize the event, which he noted was years in the process.
“It’s really rewarding seeing everybody come together, everybody, the public bringing their dogs out, everybody having a great time here,” Toit said.
Nearly 10 different vendors participated in the event, including the Central Oregon Scent Work Club. Members demonstrated how dogs use their seeking skills during practice sessions. Robin Fallon, with the Central Oregon Scent Work Club, said the group was pleased to participate in the community gathering.
“We are delighted that we got invited and opportunity to share with all these people all the different opportunities that they can have and scent work,” Fallon said.
Organizers designed the event to allow owners to drop off their pets for activities like spa care or supervised runs. Toit said the goal is for people to be able to shop in the Old Mill District or get a pint at Greggs Grill while their dogs are being cared for. Aaron Pierce, who works with Bend Barks and Rec, said the event resonates with local residents.
“I think it’s really, really, really beneficial to this community to have this event that is being centered around our, our canine loved ones,” Pierce said.
Attendees brought dogs of all sizes and breeds to participate in the activities. James Johnson, the owner of a dog named Murphy, said his pet enjoyed the variety of offerings.
“It’s pretty fun. He’s having a lot of fun,” Johnson said. “He gets all the treats he can get. He’s a very happy dog. He just wants to see everybody.”
The event also provided opportunities for pet adoptions through Street Dog Hero. Peter Vandenburg, the director of development for Street Dog Hero, explained that several foster dogs were available for meet-and-greets. Vandenburg noted that some of the animals found permanent homes during the event.
“You can come down and meet dogs,” Vandenburg said. “And if you find one that you are just in love with, you can fill out an adoption application and start a trial on the spot.”
The Second Saturday Paws and Pints event is scheduled to return to the Old Mill District on the second Saturday of every month. Organizers hope to continue growing the event with each successive session.
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