MANHATTAN – The third annual Pooch Playoffs competition raised $1300 for the Prairie Paws Animal Shelter (PPAS). Karen Schroeder, owner of Karen Schroeder Photography, presented the check to Director, Brandon Sokol, and Fundraising Coordinator, Rebecca Brown, at the shelter on April 22nd.

“This is such a fun event, and a great way for the community to support Prairie Paws,” Schroeder said.

Pooch Playoffs is both a fun competition for area dogs, as well as a fundraiser with entry fees being donated to the Shelter. Schroeder also donated 10% of profits from artwork sales.

“Prairie Paws is here to serve the Manhattan community. Part of how we do that is by partnering with local businesses to host fun events as a way to not only raise awareness and funds for PPAS, but also to celebrate the amazing pets and their owners within our community,” shared Rebecca.

Ten dogs entered the bracket-style competition, and five shelter pets were added to round out the bracket. Each Pooch had their portrait made in Schroeder’s photography studio or at the Shelter. Through an online voting platform, Sandy, a golden retriever, was voted the Ulti-Mutt Cutie. Sandy took home a pet travel cooler, gift certificates from Woof’s Play and Stay, a gift card from the Pathfinder, a special treat from Theresa’s Sweets and Treats, goodies from K-State Credit Union, a personalized photo mug and much more.

“Our pets are family, yet many of us don’t think to have a professional portrait taken of them – with or without us. Pooch Playoffs gave our participants a fun way to have a portrait of their
furry family members while also supporting PPAS,” Schroeder said.

Thanks to donations by key sponsors Candlewood Veterinary Clinic and Commerce Bank to cover event expenses, 100% of the entry fees were donated to the Shelter. Additional sponsors included Woof’s Play and Stay, Sir Speedy, The Pathfinder, K-State Credit Union, Theresa’s Sweets & Treats, Walson Ink and Wildcat Scoopers.

“We couldn’t make this event happen without all the sponsors,” Schroeder said. “I’m very grateful for their support.”

Photo Caption #1: Rebecca Brown, Fundraising Coordinator, and Brandon Sokol, Director, pictured at PPAS on Monday, April 22nd.

Photo Caption #2: Pooch Playoff winner, Sandy