- November 23, 2024
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Two years ago, the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch put four puppies up for adoption, so Matthew Vander Wyden arrived at the rescue two hours early.
“I wouldn’t have gotten one of those puppies if I didn’t,” he said. “The one that we have, Coco, kept coming up and untying my shoes. I’d retie them, and she’d come back to untie them.”
Vander Wyden was so impressed with the facility and the staff that he’s been a donor ever since.
He and about 240 others attended HSLWR’s annual Divas and Dogs fashion show on March 15 at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club.
The event’s chair, Susan Giroux, revolved the luncheon and show around the theme “Summer in Newport.”
“We live in paradise, but Newport is a paradise in the summer,” she said. “Every spring, I think about the hydrangeas, the water, the lobster and clam chowder and just always want to go back.”
The gift bags included a recipe for Black Pearl New England clam chowder and a pack of oyster crackers. Each guest also received a big, red sugar cookie in the shape of a lobster.
The fashions were provided by Sara Campbell. Before the first outfit hit the ballroom, HSLWR had already raised over $50,000 through sponsorships.
With over 130 silent auction items up for grabs and a pay-to-play game, Giroux said the nonprofit was on track to net $90,000. Funds raised will go towards operating expenses.
“Medical is a big expense for us,” Giroux said. “We take dogs and cats that have injuries, and we have to make sure we can fix them up.”