Category Archives: Dogs at Play

A July 10 canine circus, silent auction, face painting and several children’s events will benefit the family of Columbia man, severely injured May 17.

The benefit will aid Shawn McCoy and his family. He was the victim of a severe collision on US Highway 63 in Columbia when a tractor-trailer crossed the median into the path of McCoy’s car.

His injuries have required multiple surgeries and a recovery period of six to eight months or longer.

The benefit will be at Ann Gafke’s Teacher’s Pet, dog training school in Columbia. The address is 325 E Dripping Springs Road. The benefit circus begins at 2 o’clock.

The canines are members of the Teacher’s Pet Dog Drill Team. The dogs perform advanced obedience skills matched to music. Between the Drill Team performances, the event will include face painting and several children’s activities.

“To add to the circus atmosphere, we will have free popcorn, soft drinks circus music,” Ann Gafke, event director, said. “Admission to the event is free; however, we ask that guests make a contribution of the McCoy benefit.”

“We are also collecting items for our silent auction. One can bring the items to the dog school. One may also make direct cash contributions with checks made to the Shawn McCoy Benefit at Landmark Bank,” she said. “Items donated so far include a sailboat cruise on Mark Twain Lake with a gourmet lunch or dinner for up to four, an 1880’s mandolin, an assortment of power tools, and craft items.”

“The McCoy family has been involved in with our Drill Team and dog school for years. Their daughter Kaitlyn performs with the Drill Team and Misty and Shawn help with the maintenance of the school and preparation for its major programs,” Gafke said.