Benefit Dinners in Bend for Central Oregon Pets
On Saturday, Sept. 19, two philanthropic events will take place in Bend aimed at alleviating financial barriers for medical care for pets in Central Oregon. Combined, the organizers aspire to raise $250,000 for animals in need.
Paws & Purpose: A Night of Fundraising and Comedy
What: A fundraising dinner and comedy night hosted by PetsForward, alongside Three Sisters Sleep and Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19
Where: Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge, Bend
Cost: $200 per ticket
Tickets: Purchase tickets here
PetsForward, a nonprofit founded last year by veterinarians, seeks to remove financial barriers to urgent veterinary care. The inaugural gala is expected to host up to 80 guests. Funds raised will support diagnostics, surgeries, and specialized equipment for pets in crisis.
Kevin Fitzgerald, a veterinarian and comedian from Animal Planet’s “Emergency Vets,” will headline the comedy show. Jill Peterson, managing director of PetsForward, emphasizes the importance of making treatment accessible for pet owners without financial strain. The evening will feature a live auction and a “giving tree” raffle with prizes including $1,700 in gift cards.
“No loving owner should have to make treatment decisions based solely on financial strain,” Peterson stated.
Fourth Annual Street Dog Hero Gala
What: Street Dog Hero’s fourth annual gala
When: 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19
Where: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon, Bend
Cost: $200 per ticket (sold out but waitlist available)
Tickets: More info here
This event supports efforts to end animal overpopulation through spaying and neutering owned and street dogs and cats globally. The gala’s proceeds will help fund the emergency medical needs for rescued animals and cover transportation and medical costs for those in the adoption program.
The event aims to raise $200,000, building on last year’s success which brought in $100,000. Attendees can expect a chef-prepared dinner, live entertainment, poignant rescue stories, and the chance to meet adoptable dogs.
Kelli Delperdang, marketing manager, shared, “This is one of our biggest fundraisers that we do every year, and it gives us a huge budget to be able to expand our adoption program.”
Both events not only provide crucial funding for local pets in need but also foster community engagement and love for animals.
