Asking for a (furry) friend

Summer is officially over and the nitty-gritty of election season is rapidly descending upon us. Sadness and despair all around, in other words. One of the only things unequivocally proven to make it all more bearable? Pet snuggles (and drinking, obviously, but let’s focus on the pets): This week comes with all sorts of opportunities to support organizations that make the world a better place for animals and thus a better place for people.

On Saturday, October 1, round up your pup, family and friends for DogFest Sacramento. The walk benefits Canine Companions for Independence, a nonprofit dedicated to pairing assistance dogs with people with disabilities. Though participation in the walk is free, attendees are encouraged to put together teams that fundraise for the event. There will be live music, face painting, games and speeches from individuals who have benefited from the Canine Companions program. The event kicks off at 9 a.m. at Southside Park (2115 Sixth Street); visit http://support.cci.org for more information.

Later, head over to the Whiskers & Wine event from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Sacramento County Animal Shelter (3839 Bradshaw Road) for an evening of live music, dinner, local beer and wine and hanging out with all the cute furry buddies in need of a good forever home. Teaching Everyone Animals Matter, a.k.a. TEAM, is hosting and benefitting from the event, and tickets are $60-$75. Find out more at http://scotch-mob.com/team_ww_event.

Alternatively, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday as well, the Pit Bull Charity Art Show: Peace, Love and Pit Bulls is taking place at the Brickhouse Gallery (2837 36th Street). There will be local art for purchase, plus food and drinks to benefit Chako Pit Bull Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to this misunderstood and too-often-abandoned breed. Tickets are $10-$12 and can be purchased at www.meetup.com/pitbulls/
events/230910292.