Paws In The Park Success For “APCSM”

Sunday October 11th was a beautiful fall day and the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts benefited from the sunshine and warm weather, along with hundreds of animal lovers who came out to support the 1st Annual Paws in the Park benefit event, held at Borderland State Park.

Volunteers, and community businesses orchestrated a fun and well-organized event for participants. The APCSM reached their initial goal of $50,000, and with an event as successful as Paws In The Park, they demonstrated that they’re well on their way to getting this new organization off the ground.

The APCSM, recently formed to step in and take over the MSPCA’s closing shelter in Brockton, is a tight knit group of animal experts, local business leaders, animal lovers, and volunteers, and they’re opening their doors-and organization- with an invitation for more people from all backgrounds to step forward and become a part of what they’re hoping to do to help animals.

Paws In The Park attracted dogs of all shapes and sizes, and ages. When I first arrived I recognized Sheena, a beautiful, sweet shelter dog. Sheena is an eleven years old girl who’s been looking for a new home for months-she’s a well behaved, and lovable girl, who is looking for a home without cats or kids. Although tired from the dog walk, she rested and was enjoying being out in the sunshine, laying in the grass, and being around people for the day.

While Sheena took a break for pictures, I got a chance to chat with Megan Plante, who works at the shelter and was there when it was the MSPCA. I was curious to know what happened to the animals in the shelter when the MSPCA’s management ended at the end of September. “Some were transferred,” she said, “Rabbits went to a rabbit rescue, and some animals, like Sheena, stayed in the shelter.”

Afternoon activities at Paws In The Park included a canine agility demonstration. Amy White, a volunteer who helps run agility classes at the shelter, was helping direct dogs owners through the agility course with their dogs. “This is a great way for beginners to see first hand if they’d like to sign up for classes” said Amy. Dogs of all sizes were walking up the double wide planks, and having fun.

The Pet Pantry, a group of teens from the Easton area, were collecting pet food donations and promoting their efforts to help area pets stay in their homes. Jessica Stone said “We collect pet food donations and money, and we buy pet food and supplies and donate them to area food pantries, so families struggling financially can feed their furry friends too!” To join their efforts go to: www.helpfeedpets.org or call 508-587-3752.

The best part of the day was talking with so many interesting people and meeting so many beautiful dogs. For more information on the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts go to apcsm.org.

All photos are the property of SouthShorePet.Com and Pam Weber.