PORTLAND, Ore. — With SNAP benefits in limbo during the government shutdown, a coalition of community groups and a well-known Portland artist have come up with a creative way to help struggling local pet owners: they want to paint the world’s longest dachshund.

Artist Mike Bennett began work on the project Wednesday, mixing red and white paint to create the perfect shade for a dog’s tongue.

“It’s going to go all the way around this building and parking lot,” Bennett said from his studio at Northeast Fremont Street and Seventh Avenue.

“I grew up with dachshunds — I had two,” he said. “They have a special place in my heart.”

Also close to his heart is helping people in the community who are struggling to feed both themselves and their pets.

“Any chance I have to give back in a gracefu

See Full Page