Animal Alliance Readies Fundraiser

In an initiative to support our furry friends in need, the annual Wags and Whiskers Fundraiser is just around the corner. Hosted by Rockbridge Animal Alliance, this event promises to be a lot of fun, promoting compassion, humane education and a shared love for our beloved pets, said a spokeswoman.

Scheduled for Sunday, June 9, at Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery, the fundraiser aims to raise vital funds in the amount of $10,000 for the organization’s ongoing efforts to keep pets and families together through such programs as the pet food pantry, low-cost spay and neuter, and veterinary assistance. T he f undraiser begins at noon, and attend ees can look forward to music by The Ruckus Bluegrass Band and various activities designed to bring the community together for a noble cause.

“We are thrilled to invite the community to join us for our Wags and Whiskers Fundraiser,” said Maurine Houser, Rockbridge Animal Alliance’s board chair. “This event not only helps us raise essential funds for the atrisk pets in our community but also provides a platform to celebrate the joy that pets bring to our lives. The costs of pet food and veterinary care have increased substantially and families struggling financially have to make hard decisions about keeping their pets. It is our mission to keep pets with the families they love.”

Numerous animal shelters and rescues are working tirelessly to care for and find homes for animals in need, noted Houser. These organizations are full due to high intake rates, and community support plays a crucial role in helping full shelters and rescues in Virginia by supporting community based organizations such as Rockbridge Animal Alliance, she said Every day, Rockbridge Animal Alliance receives pleas for help, but regrettably, cannot accommodate everyone in Rockbridge County with its current budget.

As of the time this article was submitted, Rockbridge Animal Alliance has provided 77 vouchers for local pets to access affordable spaying, neutering, and veterinary care since the beginning of 2024 and has distributed 5,326 pounds of pet food during three pet food pantry events.

With the closure of Cats Unlimited after two decades of service to the community, more families will likely rely on Rockbridge Animal Alliance for assistance. Furthermore, local veterinarians are inundated and unable to accommodate the surge of clients with vouchers, said Houser. Consequently, some clients must travel outside of Rockbridge County to obtain services, adding stress to families already grappling with crises, she said.

Rockbridge Animal Alliance’s main goal is to keep pets and families together.

“There are profound benefits in having pets,” said Houser. “For seniors, pets can provide companionship and a sense of purpose, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. The presence of a pet can also encourage physical activity and outdoor engagement, contributing to better overall health and well-being. Additionally, caring for a pet can provide a daily routine and structure, which is especially valuable for individuals living alone.”

Similarly, for low-income families, pets can offer emotional support and companionship without the need for expensive entertainment or activities, said Houser. “Children in these families often form strong bonds with their pets, learning important values such as responsibility, empathy, and compassion through their interactions. Pets can also serve as sources of comfort during difficult times, offering unconditional love and nonjudgmental companionship.”

Moreover, said Houser, having a pet can promote mental health and stress relief, as the presence of a beloved animal can alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. “Overall, the companionship and unconditional love provided by pets can significantly enhance the quality of life offering emotional support, joy, and a sense of purpose,” she said.

For those unable to attend the Wags and Whiskers event on June 9 but are still eager to support the cause, an online auction begins June 1 and ends June 9 at 4 p.m., there will be a 50/50 raffle online, as well as the ability to make an on-line donation, all found at https://onlinefundraiser. events/Wagswhiskers2024.

There are many items up for auction such as a catered party for 15 by Glowbowl Cafe, Virginia Safari Park passes, a circular saw from Spencer Home Center, a Garth Newel Package, a comprehensive dental cleaning from Lexington Animal Hospital, tickets for the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, and more.

Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in providing food, medical care, and love to animals in need, said Houser.

“Whether you’re a dedicated pet owner, an animal enthusiast, or simply someone who cares deeply about animal welfare, the Wags and Whiskers Fundraiser offers a chance to make a difference while having a ‘pawsitively’ good time, said Houser.