A group of concerned citizens is busy organizing various fundraisers to assist Loving Paws Rescue, a dog rescue located in Luray. According to Janeane Moore, the group formed because there is no county dog shelter, therefore placing undue stress on area rescues.
“Without a county-funded rescue,” Moore said, “private rescue owners like Carol Morris Preuss are left footing the bill to feed, house, and vet unwanted dogs in the county. We’re fundraising to make a real difference in the lives of these dogs.”
Moore said that the idea of a community effort was Sharon Cooper Thomas’ brainchild. “Sharon had a vision of a huge community yard sale. I agreed to pitch in and help her,” Moore said.
Decluttering for the Dogs, a community yard sale, is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, April 1-2, from 7 a.m. until each day. The location is J&J Warehouse at 119 South Church Street, Henderson, across from Bell’s Drive-In.
“The yard sale will be huge,” according to Thomas. “It will feature housewares, clothes, shoes, furniture, and baby items from some 50 families.” The sale will go on rain or shine as it is an indoor sale. All proceeds will benefit Loving Paws Rescue.
“Donations will be accepted through March 31,” Thomas added. “Contact me at 731-234-3434 to schedule a time to meet at the warehouse. All good quality items will be accepted.”
Hamburgers and hotdogs will be sold during the yard sale, and Stephanie Byrum of Wicked Gypsy Boutique will be on hand to sell dog-related custom tee-shirts.
“The shirts are already selling on Facebook,” Thomas said. “Stephanie’s designs are beautiful.” Shirts are $22 each and feature either “Dog Mama” or “You Can’t Buy Love But You Can Rescue It” on the front. Sizes are Small through XXXL. Contact Thomas or Moore to order.
A stew is being held on April 9 at the warehouse, but it is sold out at this time through Facebook pre-sales.
Anyone who wishes to donate to the fundraising efforts can make a donation at the account at First Bank or to the Go Fund Me page on Facebook, organized by Alicia Weaver.
Other events include a Silent Auction at First Bank, planned for May, a Facebook bake sale, a plate lunch sale, and more. Dog groomer Christy Rhodes is conducting “Cutting Claws for Loving Paws” on April 9 from 8:30 until noon. Contact her to schedule an appointment.
“We’re asking the community to please support these efforts,” Moore said. “We have so many opportunities for the public to participate. Please help us.”
Moore can be reached at 731-608-2924.
