S. Elgin shelter names 'Spokespet' chosen by public for inaugural event
Anderson Animal Shelter, 1000 S. LaFox St. in South Elgin, recently announced the winner of its Pets-a-Palooza Spokespet Contest - Foxy Mae Talbot. A number of entries were submitted for the contest which were narrowed down by the event committee, and then by popular vote, the public chose the winner.
Foxy Mae is an alumni of Anderson Animal Shelter adopted in June 2014. According to her family, she is a fun-loving, people-loving, dog-loving, cat-loving and run-loving canine. Although the exact breed or mix is unknown, after much research of their own, her parents have decided she resembles a North American Dingo.
"We were looking for an outgoing pet adopted from Anderson, who is friendly to both people and other animals and who loves being in the spotlight," said Holly Alcala, the shelter's director of development. "We had wonderful stories and photos submitted by a number of our adoptive families. Our committee had a tough job in narrowing down the choices."
Foxy Mae will attend media events prior to Pets-a-Palooza and then of course, be at the event leading off the pet parade on Sunday, Sept. 20, at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles.
"This is so exciting! It is like a dream come true," said Foxy Mae. "Don't tell mommy and daddy, but I think I just piddled on the carpet a little. I am both honored and humbled to be selected as the spokespet for the 2015 Pets-a-Palooza parade and festival."
Pets-a-Palooza is a pet and family friendly event that will feature pet-centered games, contests and demonstrations, as well as food and pet-themed merchandise. Though the event itself is free, a registration fee will be required for the Pet Parade.
"Pets-a-Palooza is a celebration of pets," said Beth Drake, the shelter's executive director. "What better way to celebrate than to feature a happy, adopted Anderson pet? We're very excited for our inaugural parade and festival and hope that our community comes out to take part in the celebration."
"Thanks to everyone involved," continued Foxy Mae. "I am flattered, and I feel like a princess. I would like to send out a special thank you to all the other contestants, you are all worthy in my opinion. While I receive this honor, I want to you know that I really hope to see you all present on Sunday, September 20th at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. We can play some tug-of-war and chase discs together. I know where my parents keep the doggy cookies and will bring some to share!"
More information about the event can be found on the shelter's website at www.andersonanimalshelter.org.
Anderson Animal Shelter collaborates with public and private organizations and individuals to shelter, care for and promote the adoption of homeless, stray and unwanted companion animals. The shelter advocates for the compassionate and humane treatment of these animals through direct care, humane education and community outreach programs. The shelter now offers low-cost spay and neuter surgeries.
For information on adoption, volunteering, low-cost spay/neuter, donation drives and membership opportunities, visit www.andersonanimalshelter.org, call (847) 697-2880 or email neuteryourpets@andersonanimalshelter.org.
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