LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A nonprofit is raising money for dachshunds in Louisville. Over the weekend, Kentucky Dachshund Rescue held its “Halloweener Derby” in Paristown. It’s one of their first events since the pandemic. 

Francie Bayes rescued her dachshund, Miss Carter, five years ago from Kentucky Dachshund Rescue.

“We always have the motto you adopt don’t shop always trying to give a dog a home,” said Franice Bayes, Volunteer, Kentucky Dachshund Rescue. 

She said rescuing pets is about providing a home for animals in need.

“There are so many out there that need homes and they need love and they need attention,” she said. 

“So that’s why we’ve chosen to do it that way rather than a breeder. Although breeders are good, you know, i would rather adopt,” she said. 

In Paristown, the organization held a couple of fundraising events, including weiner races — but Miss Carter remained a spectator.

“No, she’s not racing today because she won’t listen to anybody off the other end. She wants to be around running around the other dogs,” Bayes said. 

The group takes in dachshunds or dachshund mixes and provides veterinary care, spay and neuters, surgeries and dental care all to get the four-legged hot dogs a home.

“The fundraising is essential. It is very expensive to have a rescue. You’ve got your dog food, you’ve got your bedding, and you’ve got the dog’s needs, leashes, beds, things like that,” said Chery Parr.

But there is one thing that money can’t buy, and that’s companionship.

“Being a dog mom is wonderful. We have two dachshunds actually, we have another little rescue at home. She is two years old and her name is Peyton and she is home with my husband today because he wants to have a little friend with him,” Bayes said. 

The winner of the derby will be crowned the Halloweener Derby Champion.