Dogs are appearing with increasing frequency in Westport, Connecticut, and one local pet, Yogi Bear, played a visible role at a recent holiday wreath sale that supported CT Foodshare.

The sale at Earth Animal drew residents who brought wreaths, treats and pet supplies; Cat Malkin, the writer covering the event, said plainly, “Yogi wants all pet-loving Westporters know they can bring pet food and old towels and blankets to Earth Animal.” The proceeds from the wreath sale will go to CT Foodshare, the regional food bank named as the beneficiary.

Yogi Bear, described simply as a dog who “enjoyed seeing Santa and eating delicious treats,” served as a personable reminder to the community about practical support for families and pets during the holidays. “Woof, woof, woof. Happy Holidays to all!” the dog is quoted as saying.

Organizers encouraged donations of pet food and bedding at two local collection points: Homes with Hope at the Gillespie Center on Jesup Road and the Connecticut Humane Society, now located at 863 Danbury Road in Wilton. Earth Animal served as the on-site drop-off for the wreath sale, linking the seasonal event to ongoing needs in the community.

Residents have noticed dogs more often in public life across stores, supermarkets and restaurants, a pattern that echoes wider conversations about the role of pets in households. Research into how people regard animals in family life provides broader context for that trend; see work by Psychological Science for one recent discussion of pets as family members. Practical guides to responsible ownership offer community-minded steps that align with donation drives like the one Yogi attended; the American Kennel Club’s resources are one such reference point (AKC).

Transport and access remain part of the local conversation about pets in town life. Wheels2U, a transportation service that covers the entire town of Westport, celebrated its fifth anniversary last month and recorded a spike in rides in October, underscoring expanding mobility options for residents — including pet owners who rely on local services.

Compo Beach and other public spaces were cited in the community discussion as places where dogs are increasingly visible. Most of the animals residents mentioned at local gatherings were small dogs, reflecting how many owners are bringing pets into everyday errands and social events.

Event organizers said the wreath sale was intended not only to raise funds but to collect supplies that can ease pressure on families who feed pets during the holiday season. Donations collected through Earth Animal and the named drop-off locations will be distributed in coordination with the beneficiary organization.

The tone of the day was straightforward: a neighborhood event that mixed seasonal cheer with practical support. Cat Malkin’s appeal to fellow residents summed it up: “Yogi wants all pet-loving Westporters know they can bring pet food and old towels and blankets to Earth Animal.”

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Original reporting: view the original article.