Photos courtesy of Arizona Animal Welfare League

The Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) teams up with local architects, interior designers, and home builders for the 10th annual Design for Dogs event on Friday, Feb. 23. This unique fundraiser will feature swanky, custom-built doghouses to support AAWL’s mission in rescuing and caring for homeless pets.
This year’s event is a special one, bringing together 10 “All Star” teams that have participated in previous Design for Dogs events. They are set to design, build, and donate luxurious doghouses, which will be auctioned off during the event. The highlight of the evening will be the “Best in Show” competition, where these pet palaces will be judged for their creativity and functionality.

The money raised through this event is crucial for AAWL, Arizona’s oldest and largest no-kill shelter, which supports over 4,000 homeless pets annually. The proceeds will directly fund life-saving programs, including low-cost vaccine clinics, rural rescue efforts, and a community vet clinic.

The event, which runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., will offer more than just an auction. Attendees can enjoy music, raffle prizes, and the chance to meet adorable, adoptable dogs from AAWL. Each ticket holder will receive a ticket redeemable for two drinks, provided by local vendors.

Founded in 1971 by a group of animal lovers, including Amanda Blake of “Gunsmoke” fame, AAWL has evolved from a small-scale operation into a full-service animal welfare organization. Over the past 50 years, AAWL has been a leader in innovative behavior training, medical care, adoption, and community outreach programs, especially focusing on rescuing animals from rural shelters in Arizona.

Held at the Facings of America Showroom, located at 16421 N. 90th St., in Scottsdale, tickets for this canine-centric architectural showcase are priced at $55 for general admission and can be purchased at designfordogs.org. For more information, visit aawl.org.