Animal lovers unite: the third annual Bipawtisan March is making its way back to the District on Sept. 7, for an evening of celebration, unity and entertainment for humans and furry friends alike.
Since 2017, nonprofit organization We the Dogs DC has been hosting community events to raise money for local animal rescue organizations that need it most, and it all started with the Bipawtisan March.
The passion project came to fruition with a simple direct message from founder Amber Duggan (via her pooch Izzy’s Instagram account) to other dog-focused Instagram pages from the Washington, DC area. The small group of dog owners decided to use their social influence for good. At that first march in 2017, about 300 people showed up at the Capitol, raising about $10,000 for the local charities.
“We all come from different backgrounds to volunteer,” says Duggan of the founders, who each have full-time jobs ranging from government work to law, in Duggan’s case. “We are passionate about the animal community here and saw an opportunity to do something more.”
The Bipawtisan March brings hundreds of pet owners together, no matter their political or ideological differences, in an effort to raise money for local charities. This year’s recipients are Key to Lion’s Heart Rescue in Maryland, Dogs XL Rescue, NoVA’s own Wolf Trap Animal Rescue and also Friends of Homeless Animals in Loudoun County, which were chosen by the We the Dogs DC team.
While in the past the event was held at the Capitol, the team decided to move the location to Yards Park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, as there is more space for attendees and their dogs, too.
The festivities will begin with the actual march at Yards Park and continue with a yappy hour event held at Dacha Navy Yard’s beer garden that can hold up to 700 guests. Following the glow theme, there will be a neon photo booth, a DIY bandana station, food and drinks for you and Fido, and more.
To register for this one-of-a-kind event, click here.
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