First, let me get this out of the way... the party was a real dog. Man, Tonic has really gone to the dogs! But every dog has his day... what a doggone good time! I’m glad I didn’t miss this puppy.

Whew. That’s all I got for canine comedy. Thank you for your patience.

The jokes, of course, come in honor of the recent Westminster Dog Show and its less square companion, the Dog Show Party 2005. Held at the LES’ legendary Tonic, the Dog Show Party was part spoof, part fundraiser centered on the big-screen broadcast of the last night of the Westminster show.

The night was MC'd by a trio of tuxedoed commentators, Jon Bulette, Mike O’Brien, Rich Zeroth, with occasional weigh-in from their dog-suited correspondent Jon Friedman. Picking up where Best in Show left off, the commentators entertained the crowd with their hilarious “insights” into the world of professional dog showing. For instance, did you know that certain breeds of dog, when well rested, are capable of becoming invisible?

Dog Show Dancer

How much is that doggie???

The party benefited Rational Animal, a non-profit that uses the power of media to promote the well-being of New York’s at-risk animals. The organization creates entertaining media (think funny PSAs) and throws parties and events to draw attention to critical animal welfare issues. Dog show partygoers were able to get information about the organization and meet dogs available for adoption.

Dog Show Partier

There was plenty of action going on aside from the dog show broadcast ¾ performances by the Dog Show Dancers decked out in dog ears and tails; contests such as Too Hot to Handler in which contestants trotted in circles showing imaginary dogs; betting on the breed to win in each group. Singer (and dog lover) Nellie McKay headlined the night with selections from her critically acclaimed debut album, Get Away From Me. Of course, the night’s real winner was Carlee, the German Shorthaired Pointer who took home Best in Show honors. For her, it was a totally bitchin night.

Dog Show Dancer

Visit www.rational-animal.org for information about Rational Animal projects and events.