Robinson’s Rescue’s tail-wagging contest set March 15

What better way to welcome spring than with garden party attire and a runway of captivating canines? Robinson’s Rescue is once again rounding up the best in show, or in Louisiana speak, Best in Sheaux, highlighting this year’s pack of premier pooches on March 15 at Riverview Hall.

Best in Sheaux, one of Shreveport’s most anticipated annual events, began with a Westminster dog show watch party and a dedicated group of donors with a love for Robinson’s Rescue. “Instead of just watching Westminster, we are recreating it, while highlighting all kinds of dogs in our community,” says CEO and Medical Director Dr. Andrea Master Everson, DVM. “From pure breeds to our beloved mutts, all dogs are welcome to strut their stuff on the Best in Sheaux runway!”

Robinson’s Rescue, founded Sept. 15, 2008, was the first clinic of its kind in Louisiana. It emerged from the efforts of concerned citizens who, after extensive research, determined that a low-cost, high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinic was the most effective way to address pet overpopulation in our region. Robinson’s Rescue is governed by a board of directors and led by Dr. Everson. Her love for animals has been a driving force throughout her career. As a Shreveport native, she is proud to give back to our community and highly thankful for her team and dedicated supporters, providing work that is a true testament to Robinson’s Resue’s commitment to animal welfare and community service.

“This year is so very special to us because we are celebrating 100,000th spay/neuter surgery,” says Dr. Everson. “It’s a huge milestone for our clinic and the change we are making in animal welfare, and we are going to celebrate all the animals we have been able to save.”

Best in Sheaux — Dogs are a Girl’s Best Friend promises to be a spectacular event starting with valet parking, cocktails and classic cuisine by culinary mastermind Chef John Cariere, owner of Fairfield Manor and Fairfield Place.

“We have an absolutely incredible silent auction this year, with stunning jewelry pieces, a framed Blue Dog print, one-of-akind local art, local restaurant gift cards/parties and many themed gift baskets, as well as unique experiences like being a vet for a day or trucker hat-making parties,” says Dr. Everson. “We are so thankful for all the local businesses for their support. We are incredibly grateful for our all of our sponsors. We would like to thank the William A. Robinson foundation for their dedication returning as our presenting sponsor and Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, who will host this year’s sponsorship party and raffle, as they all play a vital role in making our event successful.

“We are also so excited to present, for the first time, The Lee Michaels Experience raffle. For just $25 per ticket, participants have 21 chances to win prizes with a combined value of $2,500, a mix of gorgeous jewelry pieces and gift cards from Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry. Visit BIS2025.givesmart.com to purchase tickets. Even if you can’t attend the event, you still have a chance at these amazing prizes.”

What dog-centered event would be complete without a walk? “Each furry friend wants you to vote for them for Best in Sheaux,” says Everson. “They love being on the runway, sharing their unique stories and getting all the fun attention, but everyone must go to BIS2025.givesmart.com to vote for Best in Sheaux. Dog votes are $5 each, and the dog with the most votes wins. The dogs featured in our runway show are owned by community members or sponsored by local businesses. Additionally, during a break in the evening, we host a surprise shelter showcase, where three local shelter dogs are highlighted on the runway, actively seeking their forever homes.” Returning this year are masters of ceremonies retired Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator and Biskie Duncan, anchor for KSLA News 12.

“While Best in Sheaux is our largest fundraising event of the year, we also hold events throughout the year to support our mission such as Fancy Feast, Dogtoberfest and active participation in community-wide initiatives like Give for Good. Despite the increasing cost of medication and equipment, we have not raised the prices of our services since the day we opened because affordability is key to our service’s effectiveness,” says Dr. Everson. “With increasing costs and inflation comes a need for more financing to maintain our prices at a low cost for those that need it most. Fundraising like Best in Sheaux and others help make that possible.

“Volunteers play a crucial role for Robinson’s Rescue, contributing to both daily activities and special events like Best in Sheaux,” adds Dr. Everson. “Our team comprises seven dedicated employees and a large network of volunteers assisting in our community engagement and education efforts throughout the year.” For community members interested in making financial contributions toward Robinson’s spay/neuter mission, visit their website, robinsonsrescue.org, or call 318-221-0017.”

Best in Sheaux is March 15, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at Riverview Hall, 600 Clyde Fant Parkway. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at BIS2025.givesmart.com, your one-stop shop for $5 tail-wagging dog votes and $25 dazzling raffle tickets.