In conjunction with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, Tampa Lodge held its first pet adoption event and pet show Feb. 5. They funded it using an Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant. Elks and members of the community showed off their pets, and dogs and cats walked the runway to compete for prizes in various categories such as Fluffiest Pet, Friendliest Pet and Best Animal Trick. Every pet attendee was given an Elks “Adopt, Don’t Shop” bandana and treats, and refreshments were served to pet owners and volunteers. Three Tampa Humane Society handlers brought three dogs who were up for adoption and one of the handlers spoke about the services that the Humane Society provides and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Member Mike Volpe put a hold on one of these dogs and the next morning, he took his dog to meet her to make sure they got along. When they did, he took Dottie home to join his family. The pet contests were interspersed with guest speakers and pet trivia. Gift cards were awarded for the pet contests and there was a prize table for the trivia winners. All remaining gifts and funds were donated to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Members also donated hundreds of pounds of dog and cat food and other supplies to the Humane Society. Approximately 35 people attended the event along with 11 dogs and two cats.
Pictured are a Humane Society representative with the adoptable dogs, Mike Volpe with his new dog, and member Richard Whizenhut and his silver Lab Jenny.