Paw-Some Party Raises Thousands For Lost And Abandoned Pets

There was not a dry eye in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton on Saturday night as 350 people watched the transformation of Melody from a neglected, malnourished stray at the doors of Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, to a healthy and bright pooch living in a loving home with her adopted family.

The 12 year old Pointer was the star of a video shown to guests of Sydney Dogs and Cats Home (SDCH)’s black tie Annual Fundraising Gala which saw close to $100K raised for the charity pound.

“We’re absolutely thrilled with the result of the evening”, says Stuart Paine, General Manager of Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, “Not only was the Gala a success in terms of funds raised, but a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our ongoing achievements and to recognise and acknowledge the support shown to us by the community.”

Melody’s story is just one of many with the Home opening its doors to around 3000 animals each year. The vital work done by SDCH not only includes responsibly reuniting and rehoming lost and abandoned pets, but also providing services to the community such as visits to aged care facilities and support through experiences for people living with mental illness and disabilities.

The Home believes that true love takes time, never placing time limits on any animal awaiting adoption and working to make each animal’s stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible is vital.

The entertainment for the Gala started with guests being wowed upon arrival by The BlackTies magicians while The Australian Army Band kept up the party atmosphere along with engaging and energetic host, SDCH Ambassador, Sam Mac from Channel 7’s Sunrise. Special guest performer, J. R. Reyne, was a hit, with guests moving straight to the dance floor and singing along.

Live and silent auctions, as well as a lucky dip, raffle and lucky door prize arranged with the support of sponsors and organisations donating their services to help SDCH meet their fundraising goals.

Such generosity is what SDCH relies on to keep their doors open to help animals like Melody and, as they believe that true love can take time, they never place time limits on any animal awaiting adoption. The support of the community means the Home can work to make each animal’s stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible to give them the best possible outlook for their second chance at life.

“We really appreciate the support shown”, says Mr Paine, “It is wonderful and humbling to see so many people dig deep to help put us in a great place to move forward with our plans to expand our work.”

For animal lovers who were unable to make it to the Gala and who would like to support SDCH care for lost and abandoned pets, they can make a donation via the charity’s website: https://sydneydogsandcatshome.org/donate/