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GEORGE NEWS - How do you attract a huge crowd? You organise an event for dogs... and their owners. A few hundred people and pooches turned up for the "Paws in the Park" event last Sunday at the Botanical Gardens, to the benefit of the organisation Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need (Odin).
Odin is an animal welfare organisation in Oudtshoorn, founded by Colleen Smith in 2016. They operate from the municipal pound and strive to rescue and medicate dogs in need, educate dog owners and monitor the reintroduction of animals.
More than 100 dogs entered for the dog show competition on Sunday, which was one of the main attractions. Puppies, adult dogs and golden oldies wooed onlookers with their charm and personalities.
Local musicians lined up to provide live entertainment. Bea Crawford of Barefoot Music, organiser of the bands, said they feel very honoured to have been able to help Odin with its cause. The musicians include Hannah-Lee, Tanja Störm, Harry, Brass Strings, Barefoot Music, Heather Waters, Kevin Floyd and Rebel Remedy. Food and craft stalls provided a real festive atmosphere.
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Donatella Pontesilli, organiser of the fundraiser, said on Monday the team was still tallying the funds raised. "We will make the donation to Odin as soon as possible, and will let the media know," she said. "I am so proud of all the kind hearted people in George and surrounds. Not only was the response on the day absolutely 'pawsome', but the generosity with donations for the event extremely heart warming.
"Our vision was to welcome pets as family members to actively participate in our community, and why not take it further giving them the chance to help their fellow paws in need! We did so well and Colleen is elated."
Pontesilli thanked all who helped with the event and the Botanical Gardens for their support.
Donatella Pontesilli 072 283 1182
Colleen Smith Odin 072 084 1374 or 044 203 3927
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