Dogs and their owners will be treated like VIPs (Very Important Pets and Persons) at the “Dog Days of Summer” extravaganza hosted by The Westin St. Francis on Wednesday, August 26 from 6:30 to 8 pm. Benefitting The San Francisco SPCA, this special event is a prelude to the SPCA’s 15th Annual Bark and Whine Ball, taking place on March 25, 2010. In conjunction with the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Westin’s famously comfy Heavenly Bed, this event pays tribute to the creation of the Westin Heavenly Dog Bed, a blissful place of rest created just for our four-legged friends.

After walking the red carpet filled with “pawparazzi,” dog owners and their canine companions will be whisked to the Grand Ballroom for a legendary five-star celebration. DJ Josh Dukes will spin tunes as guests sip signature cocktails such as the “Salty Dog” and nibble on hors d’oeuvres served on silver platters; doggies will be treated to Purina gourmet snacks. Haute hounds will delight in a fashion show sponsored by posh pet boutique Cheeko B. A photographer will be available to snap the perfect portrait of the happy guests with their beloved doggies. For those pet owners who wish to add to their brood, the SPCA will have an on-site adoption center. The Westin St. Francis will host a raffle where one lucky winner will be awarded a Westin Heavenly Dog Bed. All guests will receive special “doggy bags” filled with goodies such as John Paul Mitchell pet shampoo.

Tickets to the Dog Days of Summer event are $25 per person. For more information about the event and to purchase tickets, visit www.sfspca.org. All tickets must be purchased in advance. All dogs must be leashed and comfortable in a crowd.