Paws in the Park Helps Metro Animals

PARKVILLE, Mo. –English Landing Park was transformed into a dog park on Saturday. Hundreds of people took part in Paws in the Park to raise money for the Friends of Parkville Animal Shelter.

“It’s a no kill shelter, and some of those animals are there for years and honestly they treat their dogs better than some people do at their homes,” said Tammy Schinneman, dog owner.

Every animal has a story. Frank Fisher adopted his dog Jackie after seeing her on the FOX 4 Morning Show. She sat in a shelter for years.

Another dog, Abby was rescued after being abandoned and abused.

“She was kind of the runt, you know so we wanted to help her out, she looked depressed back in the corner and she looked like she needed some help,” said dog owner Laura Votruba.

Organizer Kathy Baker says people who took part in Saturday’s event are saving animals’ lives.

“It’s very difficult to raise money if you’re a non-profit particularly in this economy, it’s very difficult this brings people who have a common interest and some will actually donate some money.” said Kathy Baker; Friends of Parkville Animal Shelter.

FOX 4′s Susan Hiland was the master of ceremonies. Since she is a dog lover, she was in good company.

“It’s the best feeling to come home at the end of the day and see her face,she’s so excited to see you, it’s the best feeling in the world,” said Laura Votruba & Josh Gleason who rescued by Abby.

Dozens of dogs from nine shelters were up for adoption. Baker says the Friends of Parkville Animal Shelter has about 80 cats and 45 dogs looking for good homes.

They hope to raise $35,000 at this year’s event.