The seaport district’s Bank of America Pavillion became a temporary dog park on Thursday night for the annual Party Animals benefit hosted by the young professionals branch of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals—Angell Animal Medical Center (M.S.P.C.A.-Angell). With 130 guests in tow, the event garnered $20,000 through ticket sales and a raffle, all of which will go toward the nonprofit's mission of providing direct, hands-on care to animals in need in Massachusetts.
This year's benefit offered a new venue and more mingling of man and his best friend, thanks to the open-air setup. The move from the now-shuttered Foundation Lounge, a downtown nightclub, to the waterfront tent lent a laid-back feeling to the party, according to M.S.P.C.A.-Angell director of donor relations Maggie McNally. “It is impossible to have a stuffy party with dogs circling, sniffing, and barking at each other,” said McNally, adding that this year the dogs were able to be in the same area as the human guests, rather than restricted a patio. “They serve as the most natural icebreaker, inviting people who otherwise might not speak to each other to say hello.”
According to McNally, the advantages of including pets in the organization’s events far outweigh the challenges, as dogs serve as a reminder of the group’s mission. “So many of [our] canine guests were adopted, and when their stories are shared, they remind others of the important work that [we] perform for animals every day,” she said.
The planning committee for the event aimed to keep production costs low, in order to donate 99 percent of the proceeds to the direct care of animals. They skipped decor in favor of food, drinks, and pooches.
Upscale tavern Post 390 donated all of the evening’s food, including a spread of local and imported cheeses, olives, nuts, and breads, an oyster bar, and creative comfort-food appetizers—Kobe beef corn dogs, deviled eggs topped with lobster salad, and focaccia-style pizza with bacon confit, goat cheese, and scallions—passed by friendly servers in Post 390 T-shirts. Beer, wine, and soft drinks were also donated, with three varieties of wine available from Robert Oatley Vineyards. Canine guests were treated to water bowls scattered throughout the space, provided by M.S.P.C.A.-Angell.
