On Saturday, October 26, 2019, the Humane Society of Union County (HSUC) will host their annual PAWS benefit, a Prohibition themed Casino Night Fundraiser. From 7 until 10 p.m., attendees will enjoy live music featuring Theresa Eaman, catered food, delicious drinks, and a silent auction in addition to lively casino games. Tickets are currently available but are expected to sell out. All of the proceeds will go directly to help the HSUC continue their much needed services in Union County.
Lisa Giovanniello, a Board of Directors member of the HSUC, explains “We are always needing funds to provide for the pets we have. We receive absolutely no funding from any federal, state or local source, so we are totally dependent on donations. The hugs, kisses, and loving we give and get are free, but it costs almost $10 a day to feed, shelter, and provide medical care for each pet. We are on track to find homes for 400 pets this year. That’s a lot of food and medical care needed! In addition we are currently fundraising to build a larger low cost spay neuter clinic. The need is great as our current building is tiny! Our appointments are often a month out, which is frustrating for pet owners and increases the chance of an unwanted litter occurring. We hope to have space for two surgical teams so that we can better meet the needs of the pets and their owners in Union county and the surrounding area. The plans and permits are in place and we have already raised about half of the money we need to build the clinic! We are hoping to get bids from general contractors soon and break ground in the near future.”
The HSUC gets their animals from many different places. Many come from Union County Animal Services where they are saved from euthanization. “Some of our dogs and cats are given up by their owners: family hardship, no interest in the dog or cat, or a move and the pet is left behind. Occasionally, people bring us stray dogs and cats. We always try to find their rightful owners, but if we are unable, we take them into our care.” Giovanniello says. But the HSUC also works across the state to help animals in need. Recently, Hurricane Dorian made a mess of the Bahamas and the North Carolina coast. HSUC was able to step in and help bring 34 rescue dogs and cats to Union County and get them situated in foster homes or at Top Honors in Waxhaw and Charlotte Kennels in Charlotte. Some of the Dorian rescues have been adopted but many are still waiting for their “fur”ever families.
The HSUC has also recently created a new website, www.hsuc.org, which includes information about adoptable dogs and cats, information about the adoption process, their fostering process, as well as information about the clinic and what they offer. The HSUC does not have a facility but rather relies on fosters to temporarily house their animals before adoption.
So, what can you do to help the HSUC? “The HSUC is always accepting tax-deductible donations from individuals and businesses in our area. Donors can chose to donate to a specific line item, like construction of our new clinic, foster care, or our pet food pantry… or they can offer donations without restriction.” Giovanniello states. They are also always looking for new foster homes. Deborah Zeppa, President of the HSUC, explains that you don’t have to agree to a long term foster situation. For example, if you travel out of state during the summer but are in Union County for the winter, they would be happy to have you foster an animal while you are in town. Or if you want to enjoy the company of an animal but can’t commit to the financial responsibilities, fostering would be perfect since you help an animal find a long term home and the HSUC covers the cost of the animal including vet and surgery costs.
Don’t forget to contact the Humane Society of Union County to get your ticket for the PAWS benefit on October 26, 2019. They are also still accepting silent auction donations. Other silent auction items include gift cards to local restaurants, limited edition artwork, and much more.
The Humane Society of Union County – 704-283-9126; www.hsuc.org
