The return of the Sioux Falls Fighting Wiener Dogs

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Year in and year out, it’s the hottest ticket on the Sioux Falls Stampede’s schedule.

It’s a game that never fails to go to the dogs, in the best way possible. This Saturday, for one night only, the Sioux Falls Stampede will transform into the Fighting Wiener Dogs.

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“When our schedule comes out, the number one question we get is ‘When’s Wiener Dog Night, when’s Wiener Dog Night?’ Stampede President Jim Olander said.

In addition to the name change, Stampede President Jim Olander says a record 50 dogs will compete in this year’s wiener dog races.

“I think people just think it’s a hoot to be able to see the dogs run on the ice and see the owners and the competitiveness that everybody brings and obviously the hockey game itself,” Olander said.

“Bark in Black” is the theme for this year’s specialty jerseys, which are currently up for auction with proceeds benefiting Dakota Dachshund Rescue.

“They’ve continued to get bigger, the need has gotten bigger, so if we can highlight that and really introduce them to people who might not know much about Dakota Dachshund Rescue, that’s a home run for all of us,” Olander said.

“This is just so important for us to raise the money to be able to care for the dogs,” DDR founder Diane Wade said.

Diane Wade is the founder of Dakota Dachshund Rescue and says this is the organization’s biggest single-night fundraiser where about 20 adoptable dogs will be on hand.

“It’ll be a wonderful night, it won’t be just dachshunds up there for adoption. We have several other small breeds that are available,” Wade said.

It’s also an opportunity to help raise awareness.

“We’re always looking for foster homes. We can’t help dogs if we don’t have foster homes because we don’t have a shelter setting,” Wade said.

It’s the rescue’s time to shine and maybe find these dogs a new home.

“It’s just such a high energy, such a positive energy evening that you can’t help but get excited,” Wade said.

The Fighting Wiener Dogs host Fargo on Saturday. The puck drops at 6:05, with wiener dog races during the first and second intermissions. Tickets are still available.