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Both human and canine guests enjoyed an evening of dinner, dancing and mingling at PAWS Chicago’s 10th Annual Animal Magnetism, March 18. Sniffing out new friends was a highlight, whether on the dance floor or receiving pampering in the Dog Spa.
The evening was emceed by FOX 32’s Jenny Milkowski, who adopted her cat Atari from PAWS, and co-chaired by Kristine Chrapek and Drew Osika. Hosted by PAWS Chicago’s Professional Board and presented by DMD Restoration & Remodeling, Inc., the proceeds raised from this dog friendly event will help fund critical life-saving programs for animals who would otherwise be at risk.
Several homeless, adoptable pets were debuted at the event, including Tinker, an 11-year-old Beagle mix who was chained her entire life outside of a trailer-home, and Franklin, a 3-month-old kitten, was brought to Chicago Animal Care & Control (the city pound) by his owner in severe condition after he chewed through an electrical cord and was shocked. His owner was unable to afford medical care and brought him to the pound to be euthanized. Both of these pets received the specialized medical care they required at PAWS Chicago, and Franklin ended up finding his new family that night.
A highlight of the evening was a celebration of animal advocacy honoring Chicago Police Lieutenant John Garrido, who received an award for his extraordinary efforts rescuing homeless, abused and neglected animals living in Chicago. Lieutenant Garrido has assisted PAWS Chicago with retrieving pets from inhumane conditions and has been instrumental in fighting animal cruelty and making sure those who commit crimes receive tough sentences.
Nearly $180,000 was raised over the course of the evening for this annual fundraising event. PAWS Chicago receives no government funding and relies exclusively on the generosity of its donors and the success of events like these to continue and further its work.
