What do you think about the notion that people tend to look like their dogs—or vice versa? I’ve recently given it some thought and I’m beginning to believe it’s true. Especially in Scottsdale, where pooches are pampered down to their painted toenails and the sweet life doesn’t discriminate for lucky dogs.
Maybe it’s the matchy-matchy designer clothing, or the blowouts and bling shared by owner and pup—there’s just something about Scottsdale dogs and their owners that underscores the term, “fur-baby.” Whatever the reason, look-a-likes are a sight to behold and I can’t wait to see fabulous top dogs (human and canine) wag their stuff on the runway this Saturday at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Horses and Horsepower event.
In its sixth year, the polo party is more than just a polo match—but of course. Held at WestWorld of Scottsdale, the competition melds entertainment, fashion, sport and more, attracting approximately 12,000 people each year—many with four legged-friends in tow.
The dog friendly event includes a Canine Couture Fashion Show where cash prizes, wagg bags, ribbons, and a walk of fame are awarded to the five most fashionably extravagant and creatively styled pups. Imagine over the top and take it to levels beyond—yes, it’s going to be that good. Twinning, props, and excessive outrageousness is highly encouraged. The canine fashion show is coordinated by Oh My Dog Boutique! an Old Town Scottsdale based grooming spa and boutique for dogs.
OMD owner and operator, Jackie Griffin is an expert when it comes to dressing fur-babies to their owner’s satisfaction. She tells me that mixing fashion and dogs in a beautiful setting is a no-brainer—and to simply expect the unexpected during the polo championship on Saturday. The show gives dog owners and their companions a chance to partake in a fun event together and undoubtedly provide entertaining material for upcoming holiday dinners.
Canines led by their owners will parade down a grassy “runway” and judged on originality and costume/outfit design. It’s all very precise and scientific. Judges include: radio superstar, Johnjay Van Es; fashion and lifestyle blogger, The Bubbly Blonde, McKenna Wesley; and Miss Arizona 2016, Danielle Fisher. Any dog is eligible to participate in the Canine Couture Fashion Show. There is no cost to participate other than admission to the event.
If you are thinking about taking part in the doggie fashion show (do it!) but need some creative inspiration, there’s still time to pick something up at Jackie’s boutique. Since opening its doors in 2008, OMD has served as the ultimate pampering pad for doggie lovers Valley wide. Combining her business expertise with her love for dogs, Jackie created a happy, unique experience for kennel free grooming and specialty boutique under one roof. The merch is OMG to die for! Jackie carries only the best from top doggy designers (clothing, accessories, carriers, doggie beds etc.) and offers beautiful baked goods for Fifi too.
Along with the Canine Couture Fashion Show, OMD takes part in charitable events across the Valley such as, Dine with your Dog, benefiting the therapy dog program at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Jackie’s own Ruff to Riches program services dogs in the adoption cycle, and her DOGA (yoga for dogs) at the W Scottsdale embraces Jackie’s desire to continually connect with community.
With cooler weather finally here, the OMD days of summer are finally behind us. Saturday’s event is a fantastic way to say, “Hello!” to the Valley’s most beautiful time of year, watch some polo, and catch canines in couture as they take to the runway alongside their look-a-like owners. Only in Scottsdale.
Happy Fall!
