Suncoast Basset Rescue Annual Waddle: Date, Location, and What to Expect

Updated

The Suncoast Basset Rescue Annual Waddle is the organization's flagship celebration, and the upcoming edition marks 30 years of saving Florida basset hounds. It takes place Saturday, February 20, 2027, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Great Ocala Dog Club Show Grounds in Ocala, FL. The day features food and basset games and activities, making it a fit for anyone who wants to support the rescue in person or meet other basset owners.

Event Details at a Glance

Detail Information
Event Annual Waddle — "Thirty & Thriving"
Date Saturday, February 20, 2027
Time 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Location Great Ocala Dog Club Show Grounds, Ocala, FL
Highlights Food, basset games and activities, and more
Occasion Celebrating 30 years of rescuing Florida basset hounds

Why This Event Matters

Suncoast Basset Rescue (SBR) is a Florida-based nonprofit that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes basset hounds in need — including strays, shelter dogs, and owner surrenders. The Waddle is both a fundraiser and a community gathering, so attending supports the same work that keeps the rescue running: emergency veterinary care, rehabilitation, and shelter for hounds in need.

The 2027 Waddle is especially notable because it marks three decades of operation across Florida.

Who Should Attend

  • Basset owners looking for a dog-friendly day out with games and activities.
  • Prospective adopters who want to meet the rescue community before applying.
  • Supporters and donors who prefer to contribute by showing up rather than giving online.
  • Families, couples, or individuals curious about the breed or the rescue's work.

How to Plan Around the Event

  1. Mark the date. Saturday, February 20, 2027, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM.
  2. Plan travel to Ocala. The venue is the Great Ocala Dog Club Show Grounds in Ocala, FL.
  3. Check the rescue's site for updates. The event listing notes "and more" beyond food and games, so confirm final schedule details, any entry or registration requirements, and weather contingencies on suncoastbassetrescue.org before you go.
  4. Decide your involvement. If you can't attend, the rescue also accepts donations and runs a monthly giving program, Second Chance Sustainers, which funds ongoing medical needs from intake through adoption.

Common Questions

Is the event free to attend? The available event information does not state admission pricing or registration requirements. Check the rescue's website for current details before attending.

Can I bring my basset hound? The listing describes basset games and activities, which suggests dogs are part of the day, but the source does not explicitly confirm a bring-your-dog policy. Verify with the rescue.

What if I want to help but can't make it? Fostering is an ongoing need — SBR states it needs foster homes right now — and donations fund emergency veterinary care, rehabilitation, and shelter. The Second Chance Sustainer Program provides reliable monthly funding for medical needs, including Forever Foster hounds who remain in the rescue's care for life.