Lagunitas Hosting 'Dogtoberfest' Monday to Benefit Diabetes Service Dogs Group

by Cody Kitaura 

Oktoberfest-themed events are in full force around the Bay Area, and on Monday night Petaluma residents can enjoy beer and German food while supporting a nonprofit that trains service dogs for people with diabetes.

Lagunitas Brewing Co. will host the first-ever DOGtoberfest from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at its brewery, 1280 North McDowell Blvd. All proceeds will benefit Dogs 4 Diabetics, Inc., a Concord-based group that trains service dogs who alert when their handlers' blood sugar drops to dangerous levels.

The $25 event will feature live music, a raffle and auction and the unveiling of a brewing tank named for Dogs 4 Diabetics' first service dog. The tank will be used to brew Lagunitas' Famous Pale Ale, with a portion of ongoing proceeds from the beer going to Dogs 4 Diabetics.

Tickets include food, but beer and other drinks are sold separately.

"The menu will include Bavarian-style Pretzels with various  mustard dipping sauces; Pork Loin with whole grain mustard sauce; Beer Brats; Knackwurst; Braised Red Cabbage with Bacon; German Potato Salad; and Apple Strudel," Dogs 4 Diabetics says on its website.

All proceeds from the event will go to the nonprofit.

More information is available at http://www.dogs4diabetics.com/events/dogtoberfest/.