The kisses were slobbery and the tails were wagging, at the La Porte County Animal Shelter’s 3rd annual “Wags to Whiskers” Pet Fest in the Park on Saturday at Luhr County Park. Pet owners from all over the county flocked to the event, bringing their four legged companions along for some fun. The event was to help raise funds for the La Porte County Animal Shelter, and help raise awareness of shelter dogs.
Jane Bernard from La Porte County Animal shelter said, “We take any and all donations! We take dog and cat food, dog toys and cat toys, kitty litter, baby animal food, bleach, laundry detergent, and blankets. Really anything, we don’t turn anyone away who wants to donate.”
The La Porte County Animal Shelter had pets up for adoption at Pet Fest, and the staff was ready to answer any questions that anyone may have. Bernard added, “We just ask people to come in and spend some time in our shelter with the animals. Try to bond and get to know them a bit. The adoption fee is $65.00, with $30.00 of the fee going to have the animal spayed or neutered. There are so many fantastic animals that are ready for their forever homes.”
Walking around the park, there were so many wonderful vendors to visit. Many handing out free dog treats, bandanas for the pups, toys, and more. There were also a lot of charitable organizations out at the park as well. Don Plomann with Best Buddies Pet Pantry explained their organization. “We are a non-profit pet pantry, who gives out pet food to low-income families in Northwest Indiana. A lot of the people we help are unemployed, disabled, elderly, you name it. What we do is we give them food for their animal so they don’t have to give up their best friend to an animal shelter. We have been operating for three years, and we have helped up to 1,000 animals in a single month.“
When asked about donations, Don said, “Ultimately we are after dog and cat food. We accept food and cash donations, and even gently used animal supplies. We help out kinds of animals as well; such as rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, fish, and more.”
The pet fest was a great success. A warm sunny day, filled with lots of love for the pets in our lives. If you have any questions or would like to adopt an animal, please contact the La Porte County Animal Shelter.
La Porte County Animal Shelter is located at 2855 West State Road 2 in La Porte, IN. 46350. (219)326-1637
Best Buddies Pet Pantry
P.O. Box 695
Chesterton, IN. 46304
www.bestbuddiespetpantry.org
Click here to view more photos from the event!