By Lydia Graves
On Sunday, November 24, Tri County Animal Rescue threw the ultimate paw-ty at their sold-out Peppermint Bark and Brunch at Trump International Golf Course, with all proceeds benefiting their lifesaving work in animal rescue, care, and adoption. All proceeds from the brunch went toward supporting Tri County’s lifesaving work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming needy animals. This event, which was in line with their heartwarming “ADOPT DON’T SHOP” campaign, truly had something for everyone. Guests were treated to a delightful array of activities, including browsing unique, boutique-style shops, snapping memorable photos with adorable pups, indulging in a fabulous brunch, and enjoying a special doggie buffet with tails wagging all around. To top it off, numerous raffles added to the day’s excitement.
Founded in 1996, Tri County Animal Rescue has been a beacon of hope for animals in need. As a no-kill shelter, they have successfully saved over 100,000 dogs and cats, providing them the opportunity for a new life. Andrea Stark, the dedicated chair of the Peppermint Bark event for nearly a decade, was on hand to passionately share the remarkable impact Tri County has had on the lives of countless animals. Under the leadership of founder Suzi Goldsmith, the organization has continued to grow and evolve, striving to fulfill its mission of rescuing animals, providing them with essential care, and ensuring they find loving forever homes.
“This year has been especially tough for animal rescues,” Andrea said, highlighting the tireless efforts of Tri County, from partnering with Big Dog Ranch to rescue dogs abandoned during natural disasters to closing puppy mills. Their mission is to make a real difference for these vulnerable animals.
A standout moment at the event was Lois Pope’s stunning donation to add a state-of-the-art imaging center for dogs and cats to the Lois Pope Hospital at Tri County. “Her generosity will help save even more lives,” Andrea noted, adding that Lois has pledged to give even more next year!
2023 also saw the creation of the Andrea and John Stark Free Veterinary Fund at Tri County, which provides medical care to families in need. The Peppermint Bark Brunch is on track to raise record-breaking donations to give a voice to the voiceless animals in their care. This event is the second-largest fundraiser of the year for the rescue. The proceeds of this event go to the emergency veterinary medical fund to help rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome cats and dogs. It also assists community members who are in financial hardship in attaining much-needed medical treatment for their family pets.
Honorees at the event included Barbara and Richard Rothschild, and the powerhouse event chairs were Adrien Arpel, Andrea Stark, Diana Retzer, and Farley Rentschler. Among the attendees were Lois Pope, Suzi Goldsmith, Susan Van Pelt, Kayleigh Kriner, Rick, Blake and Rhonda Gottlieb, State Attorney Dave Aronberg, and many more supporters of this life-saving cause.
Tri County Animal Rescue, a No-Kill nonprofit, continues to rescue animals who would otherwise face euthanasia. Their unwavering commitment to rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing is a lifeline for thousands of distressed animals. With Tri-County, every animal gets a second chance at a life filled with love.
For more information about Tri County Animal Rescue, visit https://www.tricountyanimalrescue.com/
Published by Charlie N.
