Summer dog days alive at Gordy Park
A hug for my hairy friend
The Dog Days of Summer were actually the Dog Days of Summer Saturday at the Gordy Dog Park on Sowell Road in Brewton where about 100 people brought their beloved pets for a day of fun, a good bath and to help raise money for Paws Crossed, an animal rescue group stationed in Brewton.
Gordy Dog Park was dedicated in 2017 in memory of Joe Farley Gordy, who donated the land to the city of Brewton for the construction of the park for people to bring their dogs.
Edie Kelly, director of Paws Crossed, said Saturday's event raised about $500 and the group adopted out three dogs.
Kelly said money raised is used to pay the veterinarian bills for dogs taken in that run about $50,000 per year. All dogs adopted through Paws Crossed are vaccinated and either spayed for neutered.
"Our goal is rescue pups, get them spayed and neutered and get them into good homes," Kelly said.
She said another goal of the organization is to educate the public about getting their pets spayed and neutered to prevent dogs from simply being abandoned.
"We go into the elementary schools," she said. "We want to educate our young people on the importance of not only spay and neuter, but taking care of animals."
She said some of the people who call love their dog, but don't want all the puppies. When puppies or other dogs come to Paws Crossed they are placed in one of 16 foster homes until they can be adopted.
Saturday's event, sponsored by the city of Brewton, included baths and the selling of homemade organic dog biscuits, crafts and homemade dog soap.
Kelly said Paws Crossed is made up of volunteers and the money raised goes toward the vet bills. She also noted it is a tax-free, non-profit organization and any donation is tax deducible. She asked if anyone wants to make a donation, make it to Brewton Animal Hospital in the name of Paws Crossed. If someone wants to claim it as a tax deduction, make sure to leave a name and address when making the donation.
She said the group holds several fundraisers, including a 5-K run, throughout the year.
If someone would like more information about Paws Crossed or wants to become a foster home they can contact Kelly at 251-363-9098 or email [email protected].
