‘The Big Dog Show’ Benefit Coming To West Haven

Written by Michael P. Walsh

WEST HAVEN, CT — Mayor Dorinda Borer is thrilled to announce that “The Big Dog Show,” a nationally renowned art exhibition, will take up residence near Savin Rock’s shoreline for three weeks as part of a benefit for the West Haven Animal Shelter.

Starting April 30, a display of 20 towering dog sculptures will stand guard over the grass area along the boardwalk near Savin Rock, creating a unique destination for residents and visitors alike.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this magnificent display to our beautiful shoreline,” Borer said. “This isn’t just about public art; it’s about coming together as a community to support a cause near and dear to our hearts: the West Haven Animal Shelter. We invite everyone to stroll the boardwalk, enjoy the sculptures and help us make a difference for our four-legged friends.”

The traveling public art exhibit was created by metal sculptor Dale Rogers, of Haverhill, Massachusetts, and features 20 “American Dog” sculptures, each crafted from weathering steel.

The sculptures, measuring 8 feet high by 10 feet long, are sponsored and personalized by West Haven businesses, according to organizer Beth Sabo, who volunteers in the mayor’s office.

All sponsorship funds and additional proceeds raised during the exhibit will go to the animal shelter at 7 Collis St. for its ongoing mission of animal rescue and care.

The large-scale exhibit, which runs through May 22, is made possible by arts funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.

To celebrate the arrival of the “pack,” Borer and Rogers will hold a kickoff event at the exhibition site from 5:30-7 p.m. April 30.

Sabo said the family-friendly event will include pet adoptions, demonstrations by the Police Department’s K-9 unit, and activities for children and pet lovers. It will also include ice cream, she said.

Borer has long championed animal welfare, both formerly as a state representative enacting laws to protect animals and regulate shelters and now as the city’s mayor supporting the shelter and encouraging pet adoption.

“People can meet dogs looking for their ‘furever’ homes and watch the members of our professional K-9 unit showcase their skills,” Borer said.

Donations of pet food, care items and toys are welcome for the animal shelter, said police Sgt. Jared Zdru, who oversees the shelter and supervises the department’s animal control division.

Zdru said the following donations are accepted: Pedigree dog food, dry and wet; Milk-Bone dog treats, medium size; Purina Friskies cat food, dry and wet; Purina kitten food, dry and wet; cat litter, any brand; and kitten milk replacer.

People can donate monetarily to the animal shelter here. Donations can also be made by scanning a QR code at the exhibit.

The Big Dog Show, created by Rogers in 2009, was inspired by the artist’s desire to create public art that invokes an immediate emotional connection.

Since its debut, the show has traveled to more than 23 cities across 11 states, raising over $250,000 for animal shelters and humane societies nationwide.

Rogers’ iconic American Dog design, described as having the front of a golden retriever and the tail of a Labrador retriever, has become a symbol of community and compassion.

For more information on event details, call Sabo at 203-937-3510 or visit the city website.

(Contributed Photo/Dale Rogers)