Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky will host its ninth annual Bark in Style fashion show fundraiser on Saturday, bringing together local boutiques, community figures, and adoptable pets for an evening designed to support the nonprofit’s work across the region.
The event will be held at the Grand Stable Event Venue, 7735 KY 144 — the largest location yet after outgrowing previous sites in recent years. Tanya Burdette of SparKY said the growth reflects both the popularity of the event and the community’s continued support since the rescue launched in 2006.
“This is our ninth year, and we’ve always sold out,” Burdette said. “We’ve just kept growing, and this year we’re in a 400-seat venue.”
Bark in Style features local “celebrity” models — including business leaders, media personalities, and community members — walking the runway alongside rescue animals while showcasing seasonal fashions from area boutiques. Participating shops this year include Byron and Barclay, The Earle, Boutique 54, Confetti Boutique, and Embellish.
Burdette said the unique blend of fashion and animal rescue is a key reason for the event’s continued success.
“I think what makes it such a success is that it’s so unique,” she said. “You get to come out, dress up, see the latest fashions, and often see someone you know modeling. And at the same time, you’re supporting our mission.”
The event is considered one of SparKY’s largest annual fundraisers, helping to cover veterinary expenses, provide spay-and-neuter assistance, and support a pet food pantry for local families.
“We take in medical cases, animals that people can’t afford to treat,” Burdette said. “This event helps us do those things and continue helping animals in need.”
This year also brings a shift in format, including an online-based silent auction platform that allows attendees to browse and bid more easily from their seats. Guests must be present at the event to participate.
The evening will begin with a cocktail hour from 5-6 p.m., followed by dinner and then the fashion show. Organizers adjusted the schedule after feedback from previous years.
“We listened to what people said,” Burdette said. “They wanted dinner before the show, so we made that change.”
The event maintains a formal, dress-up atmosphere, with attendees encouraged to treat it as a night out. Pets are not permitted for guests, though adoptable animals will be featured as part of the show.
Burdette said the new venue offers a different experience while still capturing the atmosphere attendees have come to enjoy.
“It’s more rustic, and it gives a different vibe,” she said. “If the weather’s nice, we can open it up and use the outdoor space too. We’re really excited about it.”
Chad Benefield of WBKR will serve as emcee. Catering will be provided by Nona’s Catering in partnership with Big Daddy’s Barbecue.
Tickets are $80 per person, and organizers expect another strong turnout. Sponsorship support has remained consistent, with many local businesses returning each year.
“A lot of our sponsors and supporters have been with us a long time,” Burdette said. “They’ve watched us grow, and they believe in what we’re doing.”
Registration and additional information are available through SparKY’s website.
