Paw-rty On

WHO LET THE PAWS OUT?

It was paw-rty time at Rheault Farm one hot, humid July night. Ruff-ly 100 four-legged pets and 200 humans gathered to raise $34,145 for the Homeward Animal Shelter (HAS) whose mission is to rescue, shelter, protect and rehome homeless dogs and cats.

The Paws Walk grand marshal was Bazzil, a friendly 95-pound Labrador cross rescued in 2010 by Liz Simon and her husband.

Simon says, “I just have a heart for anything unclaimed, animal or kid. Every animal deserves to know love.” They’ve also adopted two cats from Homeward Animal Shelter.

Melanie and Jason Dinham strolled around with Cecil, a diabetic cat they fostered before adopting. Cecil approvingly grinned at the well-behaved attendees. The Dinhams currently foster 11 kittens and two adult cats and have adopted six cats since 2010.

Many businesses lined the perimeter offering pet treats and information. One attendee said they pocketed enough treats for a couple weeks.

Executive Director Nukhet Hendricks says, “All donations to HAS are used locally. Each year over 800 animals are rescued through our programs.”

If you have a heart for homeless dogs or cats, check the Homeward Animal Shelter website, homewardonline.org, for more information. In addition to the staff, it takes 150 volunteers to run their rescue efforts. Don’t miss this pet and family friendly paw-rty next year.

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HAPPY LAIKA