Animal House
A doggone good benefit: Canines, Cats & Cabernet turns 20
As guest approached the Omni Dallas for the 20th annual Canines, Cats & Cabernet fundraiser for Operation Kindness, they were greeted by a few dogs (and a volunteer) on the grassy patch in front of the hotel, assuring supporters they were in the right place.
More adorable rescued kittens and pups awaited the animal lovers inside the ballroom. If they were able to tear away from these sweet four-legged (and one three-legged) friends, guests headed straight to the silent action filled with food and wine packages, pet-related gifts, and more.
Devotees such as Mike Mitchell, Mary Lineburg, Liz Barber, Pam Kowalski, Jill Dillard, Vicki Roberts, Robin and Bill Smith, and Camille and Poorya Fayzel helped themselves to an indulgent buffet before the real action started.
Master of ceremonies Shelly Slater introduced auctioneer Mike Jones and thanked him for his eight years of service at the event. As travel packages "sold" left and right, he paused to recognize the loyalists who have attended the fete for the past consecutive 10 and 15 years.
Erin Hannigan, the principal oboe player for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, played a little tune before Jones introduced the grandest live auction item: a private DSO concert followed by French meal prepared by the chefs at Cadot. Bidders must have had a taste for it, because the package sold for $20,000.
Before the animal advocates headed to the dessert stations — with Cabernet in hand — there was brief film highlighting a few dogs in need of medical attention and care. Anyone who participated in "Fund the Mission" supported these canines and cats.
This was a night of deep-pocketed devotion.