The third annual Santa Paws event, hosted by the Magnolia Hotel in downtown Denver, was a huge success! This year’s event benefitted Freedom Service Dogs. We welcomed about 50 dogs, plus a handful of kids and babies. (Pro tip: dog whistles work surprisingly well with little ones, too!)
Here are some highlights from the event:
- Santa’s Expertise: Santa has mastered handling dogs, even those who are a bit unsure about meeting someone in a red suit.
- Spacious Venue: The hotel’s gigantic ballroom provided plenty of space for dogs to relax and avoid crowding.
- Festive Touches: Magnolia staff served snacks and drinks. And a live singer performed Christmas carols to keep the holiday spirit alive.
To see all the adorable moments, check out the Santa Paws 2024 Gallery, available through early 2025!
A Personal Santa Paws Adventure
This year, I decided to get Santa photos with my dog, Gunnar, and his best friend, Ellie (a black German Shepherd). We opted for a sports bar event closer to home. But it was quite the contrast to Magnolia’s setup!
- Challenges: The space was crowded, and dogs had to wait in close proximity. It was tough for Gunnar, who can be reactive at times.
- Lesson Learned: Gunnar’s body language—like his flat ears—shows he wasn’t fully comfortable. But at least he mustered up a happy smile. Next year, I’ll research venues and photographers more carefully to ensure a better experience for him.
Looking Ahead to 2025
I’m already planning to partner with a few non-profits to organize more Santa photo events next fall. I’m hoping for locations like Aspen Grove Mall in Littleton and other dog-friendly spaces. Stay tuned for updates in the fall if you’d like to join the fun!