story and photos
by Josie Kapral
The holiday spirit was alive and well as Bruce Morrow, General Manager of Valenti Subaru and PAWS New England teamed up to give some furry friends a chance at finding a “FURever home” in time for the holidays. Most people who know Bruce also know his dog, Dakota, who also made an appearance at the adoption event held on November 22nd. Dakota was there to see that some of his fellow dogs and even a few kittens and bunnies would find their way to a new home.
“I tried to host this event before, but it just never worked out with the timing”, said Bruce as he sat with Dakota,” I am happy to help them out”.
Tammy Loughlin, the Westerly Animal Shelter Manager, and a team of wonderful and generous volunteers and foster families came to see the animals were cared for while several people strolled in and out of the dealership greeting the animals and playing with them. PAWS brought along a few of their star pets in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. There was really a pet for everyone. All the animals were well behaved and greeted their potential new owners with a wag of their tails.
Julie Hocking came with her foster dog, Chip described as a “huggable, lovable, snuggle bear”. Although, not quite the size of a bear, his ten pound frame held just as much love as an animal just as big. Chip, the 1 year old Chihuahua mix has been living with Julie and is ready to find a new home. When asked if she would miss him once he is adopted, Julie replied, “I will. But I will also be very happy for Chip. And that also means that I can foster another dog which is a good thing.”
If you were interested in a younger dog, Macy, an 18 week old female Shepard Mix, was also available and came ready with her “Adopt Me” bandana.
Younger dogs and puppies not your thing? Fozzie, a 5 year old Rottweiler, was also there. Fozzie was very gentle and mild mannered and sat at the feet of his handlers patiently waiting for a new home.
If you aren’t a dog person, that’s not a problem. PAWS also brought along two really adorable 12 week old kittens who just loved to be held. There were a few rabbits available too!
One of the happiest moments of the day came when Diane Gilman and Mark Perino of Westerly came in to see the dogs. They found Curry, one of the most popular dogs of the day. Curry’s friendly demeanor loveable attitude were sure to win someone over and it turned out to be them!
Some people go to dealerships for a new car or an oil change, some come for a pet, and some visit the dealership for both!
Some of the dogs are still available for adoption and if you would like to visit with them, you can visit the PAWS New England website (www.pawsnewengland.com/adopt) or contact Tammy Loughlin at the Westerly Animal Shelter (401)584-7941. PAWS New England is comprised entirely of volunteers and 99 cents of every dollar donated goes to the care of animals like these. If you would like to volunteer or make a donation to a great organization, you can also contact them via the website mentioned above.