New look, same mission for Barkapalooza
In years past, ask pet owners where they'd be on the last Sunday in September and many would say they're heading to the West Suburban Humane Society's (WSHS) annual fundraiser, Barkapalooza.
The event can't take place in person this year because of COVID-19, so the WSHS transformed Barkapaloozza into an online pet extravaganza that celebrates the human and animal bond.
The 2020 Virtual Barkapalooza runs from Aug. 1 through Sept. 27 on the event's webpage and features crowd favorite activities like the Wags to Riches raffles, pet blessing and vendor fair.
"I'm excited about this format because people have the opportunity to see and participate in even more than they would during a one-day event," said Christina Morrison, Director of Development for the West Suburban Humane Society.
Every Saturday between Aug. 29 and Sept. 27, Barkapalooza will release new videos on topics including a pet blessing, how to introduce your dog to agility training, how to bake a dog-safe birthday cake, and creative ways to keep cats engaged at home, among other demonstrations and talks. Owners can shop for pet supplies and goodies via Barkapalooza's virtual vendor fair, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting WSHS.
Each year, Barkapalooza strives to raise $100,000 to cover 45 days of operations and veterinary care at the shelter in Downers Grove.
"Funds raised through Barkapalooza are a significant portion of our annual revenue. Like other nonprofits, COVID-19 is impacting our donations. We encourage everyone who is able to donate to do so, in order for us to continue operating one of the longest running no-kill shelters in DuPage County," said Morrison.
To keep fundraising interesting, WSHS set up multiple contests throughout Barkapalooza, with prizes doled out to those who raise the most money during a specific contest.
In addition to private donors and fundraisers, Morrison said WSHS is grateful to all their sponsors for helping make Barkapalooza a success.
Gerald Subaru of Naperville has partnered with WSHS for five years through donations, volunteering and featuring adoptable pets in its monthly newsletters. Many of the dealership's employees love animals, making the partnership a natural fit.
"We enjoy our partnership with WSHS because of the staff and volunteers' dedication to ensuring these dogs and cats are well cared for and placed in loving homes," said Alec McKean, general manager of Gerald Subaru of Naperville.
As a no-kill shelter, WSHS spends a significant amount of time and money on medical care and preventive medicine. For example, when WSHS learned that one of their most lovable 18-month-old dogs, Kianna, needed surgery on both hips, the team quickly began researching high-quality, yet cost effective care. They hope surgery can be performed at a reduced rate, but if not, the shelter will pay the hefty cost to improve Kianna's quality of life.
"We pride ourselves on going above and beyond for the pets in our care," said Morrison.
To participate in Barkapalooza, visit www.wshs-dg.org/barkapalooza-2020.