On Saturday, April 19th, we came together for one incredible night - the 23rd Anniversary Celebration! More than just a party, this annual gathering is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together. 

It’s a night to reflect on the lives we’ve saved, to celebrate the community that makes it all possible, and to raise essential funds that fuel our mission every single day.  Take a moment to watch why our mission of saving animals is needed now more than ever!

See our powerful anniversary video here: 23rd Anniversary Celebration Video

Explore the highlights from our unforgettable event!: 23rd Anniversary Celebration Recap

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The 23rd Anniversary Celebration was the best yet!

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we raised over $550,000 to continue rescuing animals in need. That’s not just a number - it’s thousands of lives given a second chance, medical care funded, meals served, and “happily ever afters” made possible.

The evening was filled with friendship, love, and hope for a brighter future for animals. Music and laughter filled the air as guests socialized, bid on items in the silent auction, and enjoyed the gourmet food and drinks!

Furkids CEO and Founder, Samantha Shelton, welcomed and thanked all of our guests during an inspirational program where guest speakers shared their insights. Samantha led the charge as she shared exciting updates about the future of Furkids, including the upcoming Sutherlin Dog Shelter and Giaquinto Medical Center. 

Samantha shared just how far we have come as an organization - reminiscing on the thousands of lives saved in years past (such as Figgy, who was moments from euthanasia - but was saved, adopted, and in attendance at the party!). She also issued a challenge to all attendees, animal lovers, and Furkids supporters to get involved with the next chapter of Furkids. We are just getting started!

Guests also got a closer look at the construction on headquarters campus for our new buildings, and we were deeply moved by words from John Giaquinto himself, whose generosity is helping make this dream a reality.

One unforgettable highlight was a visit from James Dean, creator of Pete the Cat, who donated an original art piece that raised $10,000 during our live auction! We are so grateful for his kindness and the magic he brought to the night.

As we look ahead, we carry the momentum of this unforgettable evening with us—energized, inspired, and more determined than ever to build a better future for animals. Your support is the heartbeat of our mission, and together, we are transforming lives every single day. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us, for believing in second chances, and for making the 23rd Anniversary Celebration our most impactful yet.