Bow Wow Ball returns Feb. 14 to support Wayne County shelter dogs

PAWS for the Wayne County Dog Shelter, the nonprofit support organization that coordinates fundraising efforts for the shelter, is inviting the community to attend the 10th annual Bow Wow Ball Saturday, Feb. 14 from 5-10 p.m. at the Greystone Event Center, 50 Riffle Road, Wooster.

The Bow Wow Ball is the shelter’s largest and most important fundraiser of the year, providing critical financial support for medical care for dogs during their stay. Proceeds from the event directly fund the shelter’s medical fund, which has historically covered the costs of heartworm treatment, surgeries, and treatment for a range of illnesses and injuries.

“Proceeds from the Bow Wow Ball allow us to say yes to the medical care our dogs need, even when that care is complex or costly,” said Katelyn Lehman, dog warden and shelter director. “From heartworm treatment to emergency surgeries, this event directly supports our ability to provide every dog with the best possible chance at recovery and adoption.”

In addition to supporting in-shelter medical care, fundraising from the Bow Wow Ball will help fund the shelter’s goal of purchasing a Mobile Adoption Unit, which expands adoption opportunities by bringing dogs directly into communities across Wayne County and surrounding areas. The unit will play a key role in increasing visibility for adoptable dogs and reducing the length of stay at the shelter.

“PAWS is proud to coordinate an event that truly changes outcomes for shelter dogs,” said Brenda Siladi, president of PAWS for the Wayne County Dog Shelter. “When the community shows up for the Bow Wow Ball, they are helping fund lifesaving care and programs like the Mobile Adoption Unit that get dogs into loving homes faster.”

The evening will feature online, silent, live and bag auctions with donated items and experiences, dinner service, a wine and bourbon pull, and live entertainment provided by Sparks Entertainment.

Guests also will have the opportunity to meet several adoptable dogs during the event, offering a direct connection to the animals whose care the fundraiser supports.

Organizers said ticket purchases and sponsorships are essential to maintaining the level of veterinary care the shelter provides year round, particularly as medical costs continue to rise and intake remains steady.

Ticket and sponsorship information is available through PAWS for the Wayne County Dog Shelter and the Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center’s Bow Wow Ball event listings. Early participation is encouraged to maximize support for shelter operations and medical services.

Ticket prices are $75 for an individual ticket, $500 for a table of eight and $650 for a king table of 10.

Tickets may be purchased through the shelter website at www.waynedogshelter.org/bow-wow-ball or through PAWS at www.pawsforwcds.org/bow-wow-ball.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.