Tiffiney Bartz loves dogs. "I've always been an animal lover," she shared. And when she visited our studios, she brought Nevis and Foxy with her.

She and her husband run Itasca Dog Lodge in Grand Rapids. "We have 18 dog suites, and all have glass doors that have a view of the TV," she explained. 

Plus, there's two outside play areas and an inside lobby area with couches and a TV. "It feels more like a home than a kennel," Bartz said.

She started brainstorming about things that families could enjoy in the fall. And she came up with Dogtoberfest! "Why not have a big festival with dogs. And kids, of course. There will be contests, food vendors, and more," Bartz said.

It's going to be Saturday, October 2nd, from 11a-4pm on their 30 acres. Itasca Dog Lodge is at 27386 Jess Harry Road, Grand Rapids.

There will be a professional photographer, mobile pet spa, dog massage, and even agility demonstrations. "We are also looking for more breeds, so we can do a Meet the Breed event," Bartz said.

Plus, they plan on giving back to the community. "This year, we've picked the Hibbing Range Regional Humane Society. We're asking our vendors to donate some of their proceeds to them as well," Bartz added.

Your own dog is welcome, as long as it's on a leash and not aggressive. 

Cost will be $7 per adult, with kids 5 and under free. There will also be a discount for families with four or more.

"We hope to make this a yearly event, every October," Bartz said.

If you're interested in being a vendor, showing a dog, or helping out:

Tiffiney Bartz: 218-301-9532, [email protected]

To watch the original report and see related stories, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website.  https://www.wdio.com/news/dogtoberfest-dogs-grand-rapids-event-families/6081435/?cat=10335