MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Hundreds filled the Henry Maier Festival Park grounds on Sept. 20 for Milwaukee's first Paw Fest.

The paw-some event featured more than 60 vendors for both humans and pets, plus activities like a lure course and wading pools.

But while it was free to attend, it wasn't just for fun -- instead acting as a fundraiser for Winston's Wishes, a local rescue organization that helps MADACC directly, senior dogs, and those pets needing extra medical care.

And it's named after founder Jake Schneider's best bud, who died last November.

"We had a wonderful 11 years together and he is just the true story of a rescue dog," Schneider said. "He was in the streets of Milwaukee, found, his entire life turned when he found me and I found him, and then he inspired this organization where we've now been able to help so many pups because of him."

On Saturday morning, Anthony Winneshiek said he decided to bring his two-year-old French bulldog, Cadence Tillman, to check out the fest.

"He's the chillest dog I've ever had," Winneshiek said. "If I start to sweat here it's only because this guy is nothing but a lump of meat here."

Winneshiek said Milwaukee's dog community is special, and it's important to have events that highlight our furry family members.

"It's like music you know, it just brings people together so it's really awesome to be a part of it," Winneshiek said.

Organizers said they hope to expand Paw Fest in the future and make it a reoccurring event to continue to help pets in need while celebrating those with four legs.