ASPCI and Animal Rescue Relay (ARR) have created a partnership aimed at decreasing shelter populations by arranging transport from the central Alabama area to rescue groups in other states that do not have the pet overpopulation problem that our state, and many other Southern states, continue to have.  

In 2017, over 6,000 animals were saved via these transports and the two organizations hope to save at least the same number this year.  Although there is funding for these overnight trips from the sending and receiving organizations, additional money is needed to cover the full cost of these transports.  

Both ASPCI and ARR accept donations to be used for these trips, and  ASPCI will also be using some of its future fundraising proceeds to help ensure that there is always money available to support the planned transports.  This partnership is in addition to ASPCI’s current Managed Admissions and Rescue programs. 

ASPCI’s next fundraiser, which will help fund the transport efforts, is the 5th Annual Mardi Paws Fur Ball which will be held on Feb. 9, 6 – 10 p.m. at Celebrations, 3005 Martin St., Cropwell.  Dinner, dancing, auction, and music by the “Wingnuts” will be included.  

Tickets are $60 per person or table sponsorships are available.  Response is requested by Feb. 1. Attire is dressy casual to masquerade. Proceeds also benefit ASPCI’s ongoing animal welfare programs.  Visit www.aspci.org , or contact Barbara Wallace, President, ASPCI at  205-919-6606 for more information.