'Bow Meow' aids Humane Society

Marsha White gets help from an extra set of hands as she and Julie St. John make decorations for the Humane Society's annual Bow Meow Spring Fling fundraiser. The event, which takes place this Friday, April 27, at Red Rock State Park, will feature a band, a $10,000 raffle, a wide variety of food and a silent auction. [Photo by Brian Leddy/Independent]

By Natasha Kaye Johnson
Staff Writer

Cosy Balok, front, and Marsha White prepare decorations for the Humane Society's annual Bow Meow Spring Fling fund raiser. [Photo by Brian Leddy/Independent]

GALLUP — Come out and dance for a good cause.

The Gallup-McKinley County Humane Society is hosting the "Bow Meow Spring Fling" Friday, with all proceeds going toward the thousands of animals it shelters each year.

"This fundraiser puts us through the entire year," said Cosy Balok, director for the Humane Society.

Proceeds from the fundraiser pay for such things as vaccinations, shelter and food, allowing pets to be maintained longer so that their chances of adoption are higher.

Last year alone, the humane society sheltered 4,690 animals that were either picked up or given to the shelter by the owners. A little less than a third were adopted or reclaimed, while 3,066 cats and dogs were euthanized.

"It helps to save the lives of abandoned and stray animals," said Balok of the funds earned from the dance.

Balok said monies raised also allow them to maintain their low-income spay and neuter program. The average cost of fees for spaying and neutering ranges between $80 to $120; however, the Society offers low-income spaying and neutering for $35.

"It's important for the community because it helps with our pet population," Balok said.

The event costs $25 per person, and includes a dinner and dance. As part of the fundraiser, the humane society is also selling $50 raffle tickets for chance at $10,000. They will only be selling 500 tickets.

The event begins at 7 p.m. at Red Rock State Park. For more information call 863-2616.