Edsel Ford estate opens gardens to public and dogs for a good cause

Here's a chance to share in the experience of one of the most beautiful venues in metro Detroit with your best four-legged friend.

For the first time ever, the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores is opening its grounds to the public and visitors' dogs. Usually, only Friends of Ford House are permitted to bring their dogs to walk the grounds. Friends of Ford House is the estate's group that provides discounts and additional perks.

But Aug. 20 through Aug. 25, anyone can bring their canine companion to the grounds from 8 a.m. to sunset, provided the dogs are on a 6-foot leash and do not go on Bird Island or inside any buildings.

Ford House has partnered with Michigan Humane for the event and will donate 40% of ticket proceeds to the animal rescue group.

“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Michigan Humane,” Amanda Rutland, Ford House director of visitor experience, said in a statement. “Having supported their Mutt March for years, this event is a wonderful opportunity to further our shared commitment to animal welfare and community engagement while also welcoming new guests to Ford House.”

The Mutt March has been Michigan Humane’s annual fundraising walk since 1989, held on the grounds of Ford House. According to Michigan Humane, this year's walk raised $139,315.

Rutland said visitors might even get to meet Moss the Goose Dog, who is Ford House’s resident border collie. Moss has been at the estate for seven years, tasked with herding away Canada geese.

The historic estate was the family home of Edsel Ford. Edsel was the only son of Ford Motor Co. founder Henry Ford and his wife, Clara. Edsel lived at the lakeside estate with his wife, Eleanor, and their children beginning in 1928. It became a museum in 1978 as part of Eleanor Ford’s vision of preserving the estate for future generations. Visitors have access to the home's art, design, history and the environment.

Admission is free for Friends of Ford House members. Public tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 to 12. Children under 3 are free with the purchase of an adult ticket. Tickets are on sale now at www.fordhouse.org or at 313-884-4222.

More:The journey of dogs inside metro Detroit shelters — and the people striving to save them

More:Howell man worked OT at Ford plant to pay for Wayne Co. Sheriff dog’s bulletproof vest

Contact Jamie L. LaReau: jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @jlareauan. Read more on General Motors and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.