Westbanker and event co-chair Dr. John Hogg with board member and event co-chair Alisa Weldon

By Holly Jackson

Special to the Picayune

The recent fifth annual Petcasso: Animal Art from the Heart unleashed the talents of canine, feline and equine artistry to benefit Animal Trustees of Austin.

Held at a new location this year, the AT&T Center, the eclectic affair was sold out with more than 450 attendees. Event co-chairs Alisa Weldon and Westbanker Dr. John Hogg wore cat-and-dog headgear to match the whimsical theme.

A cocktail reception consisted of wine and beer donated by Glazer’s and Real Ale Brewing Company. A “Say Cheese” photo booth enticed partygoers into posing in animal attire. Cowgirls and Flowers created festive centerpieces.

Executive chef Josh Watkins catered a fanciful feast of boursin cheese soup, Greek, taco and panzanella salads, Mediterranean mussels, vegetarian lasagna and chicken enchiladas. Gilbert Johnson, Tino Ramirez and Sally Hawkins of the Chocolate Bar customized animal-themed desserts. Barbara Madrigal of Barb’s Fabulous Peanut Butter Balls provided the signature dessert.

The silent auction showcased impressive items, and the exciting live auction was conducted again by animated auctioneer Walt Roberts. Colorful paintings were presented on stage by owners and their furry friends, all of whom were the creative artists. Besides the artwork raising the most money at $17,950, luxury packages to Lake Austin Spa, Santa Fe and Costa Rica also were bid on for thousands of dollars each.

Emceed by KXAN-TV chief weathercaster Jim Spencer and produced by Emmy award-winner Debra Davis, the event generated approximately $200,000.

“Petcasso 2011 was the best ever,” said Missy McCullough, Animal Trustees of Austin executive director. “We celebrated our common love of animals and raised funds to support the great work of the Animal Trustees of Austin.”

Since 1997 when the first clinic opened, 296,825 animals that are owned by Austin’s low-income and homeless citizens have been given quality, affordable veterinary services. Programs include spay/neuter, wellness, emergency care, dental health, heartworm treatment and special surgery.

For further information, visit www.animaltrustees.org.

For more events, visit HollysHotHappenings.com

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