Toto Casting Call Charity

Central Kentucky Riding for Hope is a non-profit organization that provides horseback riding for therapeutic purposes and social and recreational activities located at the Kentucky Horse Park. Dedicated volunteers and gentle horses help individuals of all ages with a wide range of disabilities to develop self-esteem, confidence, coordination and a sense of achievement while learning horsemanship and riding principles.

Excitement is in the air as everyone with Central Kentucky Riding for Hope in Lexington, Kentucky gets ready to follow the yellow brick road at this year’s Night of the Stars Gala Benefit Auction on June 16th at the Keene Barn at Keeneland. This year’s theme is: The Wizard of Oz. What would Oz be without little Toto at Dorothy’s side? It’s only natural that a perky pooch be part of the festivities, so a special search was on the way to find just the right dog to reign supreme. This will took place at the Kentucky Horse Park during the 41st Running of the High Hope Steeplechase on May 20th, 2007.

Traci of Crooked Creek Cairn Terriers offered photography for promoting the Toto Casting Call event. Maisie & Maggie represented the Cairn Terrier 'Toto' breed. Designer Dog Avenue.com donated prizes such as a designer dog carrier, spa gift tote, $25 gift certificate for Designer Dog Avenue, and a plaid collar/lead set. Rick and Traci traveled to Lexington for the funfilled weekend to put up a display at the event, giving information about the breed, responsible pet ownership, and purchasing from an ethical breeder. Traci was also one of three judges for the contest.

Maisie sitting on the table with the Crooked Creek Cairn Terrier and Designer Dog Avenue display. We gave information on responsible pet ownership, ethical breeding, and gave away holistic dog treats. We also had a drawing for a designer dog carrier, $25 Gift Certificate for Designer Dog Avenue, and designer collar/leads.

Two Cairn Terrier contestants!

Cairn Terrier mix that was rescued the week before!

Attending the Toto Casting Call, is the founder of the High Hope Steeplechase! Cappy talks with her.

The display tables and yellow brick road. The Col Potter Cairn Rescue Network offered information about the rescue organization and the Cairn Terrier breed.

Traci's husband Rick, and Sharon from Col Potter Rescue, playing with 2 Cairn Terrier contestants.

Cappy and an attendee.

Maisie sits on the lap of someone who's benefited from the services of the Central Kentucky Riding for Hope for over 10 years.

The contestants walk down the Yellow Brick Road to the Wizard of Oz music!

Contestants are judged in 3 categories: Appearance for Toto look Alike, Being able to be held by strangers, and The owner's reason why they should reign as Toto.

Judging was difficult! They were all so cute.

After scoring each dog within each category, the judges added up the 3 judge's scores for each dog. The winner was the dog with the most points.

THE WINNER!!!! A little black poodle/terrier type mix. 'Sea Biscuit' received a trophy, a basket full of goodies, and will reign as Toto in the June event!

The judges holding the basket of goodies with the winner.