Pet Groups Plan Fair to Honor Sellman's Legacy

Even with the distraction of needy pets seeking their forever homes, the spirit of Scott Sellman will be foremost in the minds of Orange County pet advocates Saturday.

Some of the largest animal welfare groups in the county are banding together to honor Sellman, the late owner of the canine-friendly Milo's Cafe and avowed pet lover who died of a heart attack last month in the restaurant he opened in March.

In what is intended to be a celebration of Sellman's life, Desperate Paws of Orange County Dog Club is bringing together local rescue groups and pet vendors for the Scott Sellman Pet Vendor and Adoption Fair at the cafe Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It hopes to make it an annual event.

Holding the event this weekend is also intended to be a sort of birthday celebration, marking what would have been Sellman's 43rd birthday on July 6.

According to Stephen and Brandi Terry, founders of Desperate Paws, Sellman reached out to local pet groups when, usually, pet welfare groups have to reach out to local businesses.  

"We have never encountered a business which is so dedicated to dogs and helping needy dogs as Milo's Cafe," Terry wrote on the DPOC Dog Club website. "We wish to encourage and support this type of spirit and to keep his dream alive."

The long list of groups that plan to attend the event include Orange County Animal Care, Irvine Animal Care, Coastal German Shepherd Rescue and Operation Blankets of Love—all entities that Sellman helped during his tenure at his dog-friendly restaurant.

"This is not a memorial but instead a celebration of the generosity and kindness of a man we will never forget," Terry wrote.

The cafe is at 26771 Rancho Parkway in Lake Forest.