SXSW is going to the dogs, and it is awesome

Celebrity pets are not new to South by Southwest and its side party scene, but we’ve noticed an uptick in the number of internet-famous dogs coming to Austin this year. Our own TV star, Kaxan, is part of the star power at a party Monday night at the Pet Rescue Lounge, which also will feature Moshow the cat rapper (with Ravioli) and a meet-and-greet with Manny the Frenchie.

Austin dog about town Kaxan is ready for SXSW. Photo by Edward Flores /Contributed

Kaxan, who is the official news dog at KXAN and works as therapy dog through Divine Canines, has the right outfit for every event, social or weather. He gave us a sneak peek at his SXSW week looks. See the full gallery.

You can still RSVP for tonight’s free Pet Rescue Lounge. Pets (on leash) are welcome, too (don’t forget poop bags). There will be puppies and kittens up for adoption through the Austin Human Society and Texas Humane Heroes, fortune-telling from Kuro the clairvoyant Pomeranian, some freestylin’ by Moshow and Ravioli, a doggy ball pit and more. The event is 21 and older and RSVP does not guarantee entry. Sponsors include Pet Cube, which on Monday announced an update to its app that allows Facebook Live; Whistle, which makes GPS trackers for dogs; Luup, a litter box tray system; and DogVacay, a site for finding a pet sitter.  The festivities start at 5 p.m. at Cedar Street Courtyard.

SEE: More dogs at SXSW; we have photos from the weekend’s pop-up dog park on Congress.