Dogs of Scotland

The highly anticipated Dogs of Scotland event is back at the Highland Games. The official event runs from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday June 13th only, with Agility Junkies’ shows scheduled at 10 am, 1 pm, and 2:30 pm but this year we are thrilled to announce the Border Tails Rescues Runway Show!

Border Tails Rescue’s founder and director, Harleigh Garcia founded Border Tails Rescue (“BTR”) 7 years ago with a simple goal of rescuing dogs from Mexico. BTR continues to rescue dogs from Mexico, also Korea and Puerto Rico, and from all over without breed restrictions. BTR pulls more dogs from Chicago Animal Care and Control than any other rescue, with their dogs comprising a majority of our dogs.

One of the many things that makes BTR special is that it welcomes senior dogs and medical cases. Once a dog becomes a BTR dog, the medical team does whatever it takes to restore and protect the dog’s health working with various veterinary hospitals.

An important BTR program is Doggy Day Out, through which an individual can check a dog out for a few hours–take them for a pup cup, a long walk or drive, home for a nap–whatever works for that individual. Doggy Days Out provide the dogs with a break from the shelter and an opportunity to spend quality time with people in a more relaxed environment.

On any given day, you will find over 100 dogs at the Adoption Center in Northbrook, Illinois, with a similar number in foster. You’ll find all shapes and sizes of dogs there–from Pomeranians to Pit Bulls to Poodles. And always plenty of mutts. There are always a good number of small dogs and usually a few giant ones.

At the Rescue Runway, we will be showcasing several of the dogs available to adopt at Dogs of Scotland on Saturday, June 13. You can meet them, and learn more about the dogs as well as learning more about BTR’s mission and how you can join us!

Prepare for a weekend filled with the impressive skills and exciting energy of Scotland’s finest working dogs

Whether you’re a breeder or simply a passionate dog lover, the Dogs of Scotland invites everyone to participate in meet-and-greets and showcase their best fur friends. You MUST register your Scottish breed with the Dogs of Scotland to participate. Ensure you come prepared with all the essentials for your dog(s), including shade provisions and water; there is potable water at our location. As a token of appreciation, registered participants will receive one free admission per dog and be included in the Parade of Dogs, a highlight of the event.

Joining the festivities is Border Tails Rescue, offering the heartwarming opportunity to adopt dogs right at the event. Adoptable dogs and puppies will be available to adopt on June 13, 2026, only, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and adopters will be able to take the dogs home from the Dogs of Scotland event. We cannot hold a dog unless an application is submitted. We’ll stop taking applications at 3 p.m., with adoptions being finalized as soon as possible thereafter.

Dogs of Scotland Chair, Caryn Stancik is a dedicated Highland Games attendee for over 30 years and serving as Chair for five years. Under her leadership, this event continues to grow and thrive, celebrating the deep connection between Scotland and its beloved canine companions.

For more information or registration, please contact Caryn Stancik, at finn10202019@yahoo.com.

With such an impressive lineup of dogs and activities, the Dogs of Scotland event promises a day of unforgettable fun and furry companionship for all who attend. Here is a list of dogs you can expect to see: