Barktoberfest Comes to Plymouth's Old Village on Saturday

Canine invasion, or Barktoberfest as it is formally known, is set to hit Old Village in Plymouth on Saturday.

A two-mile fun walk for dedicated dog lovers around the Metro Detroit area, the event costs $25 and check-in begins at 9 a.m.

Amy Rector, an Old Village resident and member of the , said she participates in the annual Cause for Paws, which gave her the idea for the fest.

With the help of the Old Village Association, the fest came about in part because she adopted a dog last year, but also because the association wanted to give back to the community.

“I wanted to do something that incorporated Old Village but I also help out the local rescue association,” Rector said. “I took the basis for the Cause for Paws and tailored it after that event and put it together.”

Incorporating health and the admiration of man’s best friend, the fest also serves as a fundraiser to the local animal rescue.

“It is a fundraiser for the Old Village Association,” Rector said. “But also, I always partner with a local rescue. This year it happens to be Waggin’ Tails Dog Rescue from Northville, and we split the proceeds we make 50-50.”

Participants will be given t-shirts and doggie bags for their pets, which include 150 coupons, as well as dog toys and food.

Rector said that the community also likes to get involved as many businesses help sponsor this event. As an event geared toward pets, many of the vendors at the fest will be offering dog-related items.

“Local businesses set up a table of their many doggie products,” said Rector. “The vendors include dog photography, a doggy daycare, , Cozy Pets, which is dog blankets and a sponsor that does doggie clothes.”  

Although this is only the second year, Rector said she feels the turnout for this event will be good because they had a solid turnout last year.

“We had 77 pre-registrations and with good weather I expect about 150 people,” Rector said.