SEQUIM — A white cloud will alight on Bonnie McGill’s yard this Friday, bringing with it a canine talent show, costume contest, wedding ceremony and rescue march.
It’s the third annual Bichon Bash, with 93 four-legged party animals and counting.
Bichon frises, medium-sized white dogs whose name translates roughly to “curly lap dog,” are “very loving, little people in fur coats,” said McGill.
That, and the fact that friendly humans typically come with the animals, is why she’s willing to host the ever-growing Bichon Bash.
A three-day romp
Answering the call to BYOB — bring your own bichon — are families from Bremerton to British Columbia, and Idaho to Everett, Wash.
They come for three days of food, romping, prize drawings and gifts by and for dogs and humans.
The bash raises money for Small Paws Rescue, a national organization founded eight years ago by Robin Pressnall of Tulsa, Okla.
Pressnall will come to Sequim to tell stories of rescues and to take part in Saturday’s parade of dogs that have been taken out of abusive situations.
Small Paws seeks to shut down puppy mills and pay veterinary bills for dogs that have been neglected or abused, said McGill.
A number of Sequim businesses, including Heather Creek Home Decor, Lavender & Lace and Lady Truffles, have donated items to be offered in this weekend’s fundraising prize drawings.
Pacific Northwest Bichon Bash begins at 5 p.m. Friday with a potluck supper at Bonnie McGill’s home just north of Sequim.
On Saturday, events include a bichon frise talent show, wedding, costume contest and rescue parade starting at 11 a.m. Dog lovers should bring their own lunches, but beverages and dessert will be provided. Those who bring bichon frises should call ahead and pay the $10 registration fee.
Finally, an ice cream social starts at noon Sunday.
For information e-mail host McGill at bmcgill@olypen.com or phone 360-681-4480.