By Conrad Dudderar
Staff Writer
Pet lovers braved the mid-summer heat to support five animal rescue groups at a first-ever Yukon event.
Twenty-two vendors and 20 games were featured in the inaugural “Pup-Purr-Azzi” Carnival on June 24 at the Pets & People Dog Park, 701 Inla.
The Saturday benefit raised funds for – and awareness of – Miller’s Cause, Pets & People Humane Society, Safe Haven Animal Rescue, Street Dog Rescue & Recovery, and Tornado Alley Bulldog Rescue.
Peggy Nichols, who chaired the Pup-Purr-Azzi committee, said the animal rescues appreciated the support shown by event attendees and participants.
“The people who came out really had a lot of fun,” said Nichols, a Pets & People board member and volunteer. “It was hot out there, so we had two ice chests full of water for our volunteers and attendees.
“This was our first year of doing the Pup-Purr-Azzi Carnival. Our goal is to find a place indoors next year due to the scorching heat.”
Nichols headed a committee that included Angie Tomlinson, Kenzi Johnson and Cerese Collie.
She thanked all 25 volunteers who came out to help “in any way they could.”
“I also want to thank Think Solar for sponsoring us,” Nichols added.
PETTING ZOO A HIT
The biggest hit was the Kommunity Kindness petting zoo – set up in a shaded area – provided by Yukon volunteer Kyle Woodall.
This featured a baby goat, momma goat, pigs, and rabbits.
A bouncy house was the second most popular attraction of the animal rescue benefit carnival.
Another big hit were food trucks offering tasty treats liked hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, “walking” tacos, and snow cones.
Musician Brady Shattan was on hand performing some classic rock favorites.
“Brady was very entertaining,” Nichols said. “We really appreciate him being there.”
Proceeds from Yukon’s first Pup-Purr-Azzi Carnival have been distributed evenly among the five animal rescue groups.
