By Paige Nash
Sunday was a great day to be a dog. Two-legged and four-legged friends from around town came to Academy Park to celebrate Chairman’s first birthday, Mayor Terry Gardner’s companion. This was the first event to help raise funds for the new Minden Animal Shelter.
“It is amazing that so many animal lovers turned out today to support not only Chairman’s birthday, but to support our new animal shelter,” Gardner said.
The birthday party included tail painting, a bounce house, a photo booth, cakes and goodies for dogs and humans. There was a donation table set up where the public could view the plans for the new shelter. The plans showed multiple canine kennels, a cat room, a dog run, storage areas and an office.
Wanda Groves, K-9 Companion Specialist, provided an obedience training exhibition, as well.
“K-9 Companion Specialist believes all dogs should have a fair chance in life.” said Groves. “I have so many come for training that have been surrendered to the shelter due to bad behavior, when all in all they were just being dogs. They also deserve to be in a nice shelter until they find their forever homes. Hopefully Minden will have their great new facility soon.”
This first fundraiser brought in a total of $3,275, which will be added to the $75,000 that the city was recently granted from the state. The total funds needed for the project to move forward is $350,000.
Chairman’s birthday was a great kick start with more events to come.
