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Pet project is fit for man and beast
By JACKIE RIPLEY, Times Staff Writer ODESSA -- There won't be any big name entertainment but there will be lots of pets and pet owners gathering Saturday at Camp Keystone for the St. Francis Society's first ever Animal Aide Carnival. "It's to raise money to support animal rescue and adoption," said Sharon Espinola, spokeswoman for the animal rescue organization based in Carrollwood. "And it's a way to get people out and have fun as well." The society, named after St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of all creatures, is a volunteer, nonprofit dedicated to saving the lives of sick and stray domestic animals. It also helps pay for spaying and neutering as well as medical care for stray or injured pets. While it has no shelter facility, St. Francis has foster homes where animals are kept until permanent homes can be found. "Taking care of medical expenses can range in the hundreds of dollars," Espinola said. "Feeding and caring adds up." The festivities, which run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., feature a pet/owner look alike contest, a pet talent show, and professional animal demonstrations, including a dog agility course. Pets will be able to cool off in wading pools and two-legged participants can enjoy a dunk tank, moon walk, pizza, hot dogs and snow cones. At the end of the day a candlelight vigil will be held during which people who have lost a pet can take a moment to reflect. "This will be the first time we do this," Espinola said. "It will be fun to see what kind of response we get from the community." St. Francis Society works through committees that include animal rescue, adoption, sterilization, animal welfare, education, fundraising, disaster preparedness and foster care. Camp Keystone is north of Lutz Lake Fern Road on the west side of Gunn Highway. Admission is $5. -- Jackie Ripley can be reached at (813) 269-5308 or ripley@sptimes.com.
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From the Times Letters |
