Photos by Evie Carpenter
Several hundred people stopped by the Arizona Center Sunday to treat their pets to a day dedicated to man’s best friend while participating in a fundraiser for a nonprofit organization that finds homes for boxer dogs.
More than 200 dogs were treated to three-course meals, pictures with Santa Claus, micro-chipping and doggie yoga. The event, called “Paws on the Patio,” was held by Almost Home Boxer Rescue, which hoped to raise $5,000 dollars.
“We’ve had a really good turnout,” said Jane Welchlin, director of placement at Almost Home Boxer Rescue foundation.
Food for the doggie meals was provided by the Arizona Center restaurant Sam’s Café, which donated all proceeds to the foundation. Fifteen vendors were also present at the event, each donating part of the money they generated.
“The funds will be going directly into a medical fund to make sure all of our vet bills are taken care of,” Welchlin said. The bills include dog-neutering, medication and surgery that rescued dogs may need.
The rescue foundation currently has six dogs that it is trying to find a home for. Almost Home Boxer Rescue has been able to successfully match more than 350 dogs with homes since the organization was established 2005.
Rylee DeWitt, a 25-year-old west valley resident, brought her Chihuahua–mix dog, Shooter, to take a holiday picture with Santa. She said the event was important to her because Shooter was a rescue animal she picked up 10 months ago.
“I’m happy to help,” DeWitt said, explaining that she did not mind paying $5 to have Shooter take a picture with Santa since the money went to a good cause.
The three-course doggie meals created by Sam’s Cafe included a greasy-bacon salad for starters, Thanksgiving hash for the entrée and frozen yogurt for dessert.
“I thought no one was coming, but we’ve had about 200 dogs and 500 dog-owners come through the doors today,” Sam’s Cafe manager Shasta Ahumada said.
“It’s a great cause, its about helping the quiet pets in our lives that deserve more,” she said.
Contact the reporter at ruby.ramirez.1@asu.edu
