64 THE NEW BARKER 
www.TheNewBarker.com
We had a blast sponsoring Doxapalooza 2025, hosted by DARE (Dachshund 
Adoption, Rescue & Education), a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescu-
ing and rehoming Dachshunds. Our team has covered Doxapalooza since its 
inception, and the 2025 event was truly one of the best yet. 
      Hundreds of Dachshund lovers gathered for the 19th annual celebration 
on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at Keel Farms in Plant City. The day kicked 
off with an opening ceremony hosted by Good Day Tampa Bay’s Charley 
Belcher, followed by the first Blessing of the Animals of the day. 
      “We are so grateful for everyone who supported DARE by sponsoring 
Doxapalooza. Every dollar raised helps DARE further our mission,” said Alicia 
Duval, President of DARE. 
      Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including 
fun games and crowd-favorite costume contests. From fabulous 1950s flair to 
the most creative looks, the Doxapalooza costume contest is always a show-
stopper. The event wrapped up with the famous wiener dog races, courtesy of 
the Florida Wiener Dog Derby. 
      The 2026 event will mark the 20th anniversary of Doxapalooza, hosted at 
Keel Farms in Plant City on November 7, 2026. It’s sure to be an unforget-
table celebration. Save the date and come celebrate with The New Barker. 
(Top left): Mack took the lead for his humans 
during Doxapalooza 2025 at Keel Farms in 
Plant City. (Above): Mini Pearl showing off her 
adorable bat costume.  (Left): Doxapalooza’s 
emcee Charlie Belcher of Fox13, Alicia Duval, 
president of DARE, Bella, a 14-year-old 
Dachshund who gained international 
attention for her perpetual smile, and her 
human Melanie Savage. Bella attended 
Doxapalooza as one of the Costume Contest 
judges. Sadly, she passed away in December 
2025 after a medical emergency.  
DARE (Dachshund Adoption, 
Rescue & Education) is a 
Florida-based non-profit 
group dedicated to the 
rescue, rehabilitation & 
rehoming of Dachshunds 
and Dachshund mixes. 
 
www.DareToRescue.org 
info@daretorescue.org 
Facebook and Instagram 
@daretorescue 
DOXAPALOOZA 2026 
November 7
Poodle Skirts, Saddle 
Shoes, Rock ‘N Roll
Written and photographed by Heather Schulman

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