By Shelby Clark Petkus
Ferndale plays host to a "cause for some paws" this weekend with a special Valentine's Day-themed event. Pug Rescue Network (PRN) and Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue (MWBTR) will host the event from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7 at Renaissance Vineyard Church, 1841 Pinecrest Drive, in Ferndale.
The event will feature games, raffles and "a great atmosphere," according to their press release. As a means to benefit the pet-centric organizations, "Pennies for Pets" will also be held. Attendees are asked to bring pennies to try and fill a five-gallon jug. PRN merchandise will also be available for purchase.
PRN was founded in September 2004 by a small group of individuals who had spent years working with other animal rescues. After seeing the huge difference volunteers made in rescued pets' lives, they spent time researching and participating in dog training and behavioral seminars. Deciding to make a rescue of their own, these animal lovers created a group. Their vision? To save pugs from troubling and life threatening situations. With the help of additional dedicated volunteers, the organization is able to locate, retrieve and place pugs into loving new homes.
The Walled Lake-based group continues to follow the original mission to embrace neglected, forgotten and displaced pugs with compassion, while also providing education, awareness and stable adoptive families.
According to PRN's website, "To ensure each pug is given the best chance at finding a new home, all pugs turned into the Pug Rescue Network are evaluated for temperament and overall disposition. They are then placed into our Foster Network of private homes – we do not have a facility for you to visit."
MWBTR services a larger area than PRN but is no less-focused on saving and helping Michigan dogs. Working primarily in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana, the group rescues Boston Terriers specifically because "we know and love this breed, and for no other reason then our concern for their welfare" reads their website. Beyond an affection for the breed, the rescue also acknowledges the increased trend in adopting Boston Terriers since January 2004. As the demand for the dog has increased, so have the number of rescues.
For any additional information on the organization, visit http://www.pugrescuenetwork.com. And stay tuned for BTL's "Pamper Your Pets" Guide, out March 5, for some more furry fun.
