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Black Dog Animal Rescue announces annual Bark and Wine Gala

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 12th 2025 at 22:54 GMT by Wyoming News
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Wyoming’s Black Dog Animal Rescue Hosts Annual “Bark & Wine” Gala to Support Local Shelter

In the early summer of 2024, the community of Cheyenne was set to gather for one of the state’s most anticipated charitable events: the Black Dog Animal Rescue’s annual Bark & Wine Gala. The event, scheduled for Saturday, July 13 at the historic Red Brick Barn in downtown Cheyenne, promises to combine fine dining, live entertainment, and a spirited fundraiser in a celebration of the region’s love for pets and good wine.

The Heart of the Gala: Supporting Black Dog Animal Rescue

Founded in 2016, Black Dog Animal Rescue is a non‑profit organization that rescues dogs abandoned or mistreated in Wyoming and neighboring states. The rescue operates a community‑based shelter, provides veterinary care, facilitates adoptions, and runs educational outreach programs across the state. The annual Bark & Wine Gala serves as a primary source of funding for the organization’s operations, enabling the rescue to purchase food, medications, and supplies, as well as pay for staff and facility maintenance.

According to a spokesperson for the rescue, the gala has been a “win‑win” event for years: local businesses contribute sponsorships or donated goods, the community enjoys a night of entertainment, and the proceeds directly improve the lives of countless dogs. “We’re grateful for the continued support of Cheyenne’s business community and animal lovers,” said Mia Hernandez, Executive Director of Black Dog Animal Rescue. “Each dollar we raise keeps us one step closer to finding homes for every dog that comes through our doors.”

Event Highlights

1. Wine & Dinner

The centerpiece of the evening will be a farm‑to‑table dinner featuring seasonal Wyoming cuisine, paired with a selection of wines from local vineyards. A private tasting room hosted by Canyon Cellars, a nearby boutique winery, will showcase its flagship Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Attendees can sample a curated selection of wines for a small fee, with a portion of the proceeds donated to the rescue.

2. Live Entertainment

The gala’s entertainment line‑up includes a live jazz quartet performing throughout the evening, interspersed with short comedy acts and a DJ set to keep the atmosphere lively. The main stage will also feature a puppy showcase where local trainers demonstrate tricks and showcase rescue dogs that are up for adoption.

3. Silent Auction & Raffles

A silent auction will feature high‑value items such as a weekend stay at a local resort, a private tour of the Cheyenne Farmers Market, and a “Day of Pampering” package for your own dog at a partner pet spa. Each bid will support Black Dog’s veterinary and shelter needs.
In addition, a series of raffles will be drawn throughout the night, offering prizes ranging from a $500 gift card to a top‑tier pet supply package.

4. Pet Adoption & “Meet‑and‑Greet” Sessions

Perhaps the most exciting component for many attendees is the opportunity to meet and possibly adopt dogs directly from Black Dog’s shelter. The gala’s volunteer staff will arrange “meet‑and‑greet” sessions where participants can interact with friendly, adoptable dogs in a relaxed setting.

Ticketing and Sponsorship Opportunities

Tickets to the Bark & Wine Gala are priced at $75 per person, with a $200 block available for groups of five or more. The event also offers a tiered sponsorship structure:

• Platinum Sponsor – $5,000 – includes a full‑page ad in the program, a speaking slot, and five complimentary tickets.
• Gold Sponsor – $2,500 – includes a half‑page ad and three complimentary tickets.
• Silver Sponsor – $1,000 – includes a quarter‑page ad and one complimentary ticket.

Sponsorship benefits are detailed on the Black Dog website, which also provides a link to an online donation portal for those who cannot attend but wish to contribute.

Community Impact and Past Success

In the previous year’s gala, Black Dog Animal Rescue raised $27,000, which was earmarked for purchasing new kennels, upgrading medical equipment, and expanding the organization’s outreach program. The event’s success underscores the strength of Cheyenne’s philanthropic community.

“Last year’s turnout was amazing—over 300 guests, 15 adoptable dogs, and a record‑breaking donation amount,” said Hernandez. “We’re looking forward to a repeat of that success this year, and we’re excited to showcase the progress the rescue has made in the past year.”

How to Participate

Interested individuals can purchase tickets and reserve seats by visiting the event page on Black Dog’s official website. The site also lists all sponsors, upcoming volunteer opportunities, and a FAQ section to answer common questions about the gala’s logistics.

For those who can’t attend but still wish to help, the charity’s donation page is open 24/7, offering options to donate via credit card, PayPal, or even a direct bank transfer.

A Broader Message

Beyond the gala’s immediate fundraising goal, the event serves as a platform to raise public awareness about responsible pet ownership, the challenges faced by shelter animals, and the importance of community support for rescue organizations. By bringing together pet lovers, wine connoisseurs, and local businesses, the Bark & Wine Gala embodies a collaborative spirit that is vital for sustaining animal welfare initiatives in Wyoming and beyond.

The next Bark & Wine Gala will be an evening of fine wine, good food, and even better company, all aimed at providing a brighter future for the dogs in need. Whether you’re a seasoned donor, a first‑time volunteer, or simply someone who loves a good story about a dog finding its forever home, the event promises a memorable night that makes a lasting difference.

For more details, to purchase tickets, or to become a sponsor, visit the Black Dog Animal Rescue website or contact the event coordinator at barkandwine@blackdogwy.org.