Buchanan went to the dogs Saturday. Dogs, cats, chickens, goats, a couple of alligators and even a cockatiel gathered for the second annual Festival of the Animals, followed by the blessing of the animals at First Presbyterian Church.

In spite of much competition with other weekend events, attendees brought their pets to the Buchanan Common under bright and sunny skies.

Great Lakes Weimaraner Rescue Inc. attended with a number of silver and blue dogs representing the gentle, loving breed. Tonette Bogner, director of the charity, explained that this is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization serving the Great Lakes region, including Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Ontario, Canada.

“We are a breed-specific rescue founded in May 2005. We have placed over 1,000 dogs and one of our dogs was just featured in People magazine A couple of our dogs have been finalists in the Purina contests over the past few years. Our dogs come from all over. We work with shelters and people who need to re-home their dogs due to life changes. We are a foster home-based organization. Currently, we have about 60 dogs awaiting adoption ranging from about 4 months to 13 years old,” she said.

Smooch-the-Pooch kissing booth was back by popular demand. The booth is operated by Lisa Frey, owner of Orchardview Pet Grooming of Buchanan. All proceeds from the booth are donated to the Buchanan Art Center which holds the event as part of its fundraising efforts in support of its many programs held throughout the year.

The Art Center hosted several events, including a pet parade and costume competition. Attendees could participate to win a number of prizes donated by area merchants by either entering the instant-win Litter Box Scoop, the Big $5 Raffle or the Silent Auction for larger prizes.

At the former Senior’s Center, pet owners could have their portrait taken with their pet, learn to roll beeswax candles or support the Buchanan’s Field of Dreams Dog Park project by buying T-shirts or entering another raffle.

The library sponsored a viewing of their newly acquired film, “The Vanishing of the Bees,” with local beekeeper and owner of Blossomland Bee Supply, Phil Hempel on hand to answer questions and give information about backyard beekeeper’s classes. No bees were on hand for petting.

However, Rainbow 4-H Club attended with farm animals to pet. and there were other vendors showing their wares and services including Dog E Style Pet Grooming from Buchanan; MeJ Images, featuring animal-themed jewelry and photographic prints; Scentsy Wickless Candles; Dog-Gone-It-I’m Special, homemade dog treats and dog-wear; and Hours Together, knitted and crocheted goods. Diesel Diner provided doggie biscuits with country gravy, specifically made for human consumption.