Passion is what gets the staff at Iron Pig Alehouse to come to work every day. While serving delicious food and drinks is part of it, the restaurant takes pride in their involvement with the Pacific Beach community.
On April 30, the barbecue and craft beer joint is partnering with Second Chance Brewing to hold a special event for Operation Greyhound. The nonprofit works to rescue American racing greyhounds from Tijuana and find them forever homes.
Operation Greyhound has been around since 1991. While the racing circuit is legal, the dogs are usually packed in small kennels and overworked. Once they’re too old to race, around age of 2 or 3, these young dogs face euthanasia. Operation Greyhound has placed more than 3,500 dogs since it was founded. Volunteer Valerie Due says though they’ve been through a tough life, the dogs are sweethearts. “They’re totally happy, can’t wait to be loved and petted once they come off the racetrack.”
Due said her own adopted greyhound changed her life. “Greyhounds typically aren’t a family’s first thought when adopting a dog, due to the myth that they are high-strung, high-energy dogs,” she said. “But they express a regal and gentlemanly wisdom, while being incredibly loving.”
Her staff calls them velcro dogs, because they love to be by your side. And while greyhounds are known for their competitive speed, “They are actually calm, loving and quiet, and usually nap most of the day.” That makes these special dogs perfect for families in PB. On the day of the event, anyone can walk into Iron Pig and say they’re supporting Operation Greyhound and 15 percent of their tab will go directly to the organization, which depends on community support and volunteers. But the real fun begins at 4 p.m., when adoptable dogs will take over the patio and the community will get the chance to see how great these beautiful animals are. The event will also feature a drawing for donated items, including Painted Hounds artwork by local artist Courtney Kelly. Visitors also have the chance to win a kayak trip by Everyday California, some local swag, and gift cards.
Iron Pig Alehouse will be tapping several Second Chance beers, including a specialty brew made exclusively for Operation Greyhound. “Supporting our local community is a cornerstone for Iron Pig Alehouse,” said Ryan Woldt, bar manager at Iron Pig. The restaurants hosts countless fundraisers for local organizations and schools, with many coming up in the next few months.
Everyone at Iron Pig has a personal connection to the community, and is dedicated to maintaining it. “We’re motivated by the fact we’re here all the time,” said Woldt. “It’s us and the community working to make this a better place.”
As part of that commitment, the staff at Iron Pig Alehouse wants to foster communication with PB locals. If your favorite cause is looking to raise extra money, stop by the restaurant. “Come in and talk to us about what you’re passionate about,” said Woldt. “We’re here to listen.” When: The event runs from 4 to 8 p.m. on April 30. Where: Iron Pig Alehouse,1520 Garnet Ave.
Info: For more information about how to adopt or volunteer with Operation Greyhound, email [email protected] or visit operationgreyhound.com. For more information about Iron Pig Alehouse, visit ironpigalehouse.com.