Heading to or already at South by Southwest (SXSW) for tech, film, music or fun? Here are a few dog-themed distractions for your to-do list.

Look for Lucky, a 14-year-old retired fire and avalanche rescue dog, at SXSWi. The greying Golden Retriever, along with best bud and filmmaker Charles Weingarten, is promoting the Dog Bless You initiative on Facebook [4]to raise funds for relief efforts in the wake of the Japan tsunami this time last year.

Sample Lagunitas brewing company ales and groove to Sonoma County bands to raise money and awareness for Blue Dog Rescue [5]in Austin, Tex.

Rock out to Dog Day [6] because the husband-wife team has a worthy rural-grunge sound and a great name.

Add your two cents to a panel discussion on the topic of dog-friendly offices [7]. Paws up, right?

If you’re stuck at home, sit back and enjoy Emmylou Harris singing “Big Black Dog” at SXSW 2011: