It’s not every day you see more than 30 bulldogs race in front of one of the most iconic resorts in Las Vegas – but that’s just what happened today when Caesars Palace hosted the inaugural “Running of the Bulldogs” (Pictured: Winner of the inaugural “Running of the Bulldogs,” Lola, and her owner, Anthoney Apalategui, pose with Caesar and Cleopatra at Caesars Palace – Photo credit: Denise Truscello / WireImage www.DeniseTruscello.net).

Photo credit: Denise Truscello / WireImage www.DeniseTruscello.net.
The event, in celebration of Caesars Entertainment’s PetStay program and National Dog Week, featured dozens of four-legged competitors racing toward a doghouse replica of the famed Colosseum in front of Caesars Palace.

Photo credit: Denise Truscello / WireImage www.DeniseTruscello.net.
Caesar and Cleopatra welcomed pooches and guests alike with royal flair while comedian-juggler Jeff Civillico, who headlines the “Jeff Civillico: Comedy in Action” show at The Quad Resort & Casino, entertained the crowd and called the races. After eight preliminary and two semi-final heats, the fastest four furry finalists competed in the championship round to determine the winning pup.

Photo credit: Denise Truscello / WireImage www.DeniseTruscello.net.
Lola, crowned “top dog,” went home with a laurel wreath crown, a blue ribbon and, of course, some treats, while her owners Jamie Palazzolo and Anthoney Apalategui were given accommodations for two nights in a PetStay room at Caesars Palace along with dinner for two at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. All participating pooches received a PetStay goody bag, which included a food and water bowl and treats, among other items.
“PetStay,” a dog-friendly hotel program is featured at eight Las Vegas resorts including Caesars Palace, Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Flamingo Las Vegas, Bally’s Las Vegas, Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino and The Quad Resort & Casino. Guests participating in the PetStay program are greeted by several canine-friendly in-room amenities including a mat, food and water dishes, disposable waste bags and dog treats. Each PetStay resort hosts a designated PetStay area within the hotel, equipped with welcome packets that direct guests to outdoor relief areas and dog walking routes. Additional information about dog-friendly items for purchase and nearby dog services (such as grooming, walking and veterinary care) is available upon check-in at each of the participating resorts.