A Time for Giving! Local Business Hosts Fundraiser for Humane Society

Story by Kathleen Wilson

       Warwick residents and local businesses were filled with the holiday spirit and the joy of giving on Wed., Dec. 13 as they stopped by R&D Legal Bookkeeping’s office in Warwick bearing checks, pet food, and supplies to donate to the Warwick Valley Humane Society.

      The 2nd Annual Fundraiser Breakfast was hosted by R&D’s owner, Rochelle DeJong and included a spread worthy of kings. More than two dozen attendees enjoyed a variety of quiches, assorted bagels and spreads, muffins, fruit platters, and beverages donated by R&D.

      In addition, five percent of all bookkeeping, payroll services, and business administration services provided to R&D clients during the month of December will be donated to the Warwick Valley Humane Society. On hand for the event and greeting each guest at the door was Luke, R&D’s eight-month-old lab mix rescue and mascot. Luke truly delighted everyone with his playful antics and holiday kisses!

     The Warwick Valley Humane Society shares in Warwick’s rich and unique history. In the early 1950s, Broadway actress Gretchen Wyler purchased a summer home in Warwick and, recognizing the need to help injured and stray animals, together with her husband, Musical Director, Shep Coleman, and stage, television, and film actor, Richard Kiley and others, formed the Warwick Valley Humane Society in 1954.

      “The shelter opened in 1967 and has never refused abandoned or stray animals. Over the years the shelter has taken in just about every kind of animal including dogs, cats, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, goats, a pot-bellied pig, and even a chinchilla. The shelter has contracts with the Town of Warwick, Chester, and Tuxedo for dog control and provides 24/7 service to a dog in distress,” said Lee Peterson, Corresponding Secretary for the Warwick Valley Humane Society for the past 23 years.

      Peterson continued,

 “The Humane Society provides care to these animals through fundraisers, individual donations, and through bequest and does not receive State, County, or municipal funding.”

     In the spirit of giving, residents can drop off donations through December at R&D Legal Bookkeeping, located at 311 State Rte. 94 S. in Warwick. Checks are welcome as well as kitten and puppy food, Greenies pill pockets, dog biscuits, and supplies that are needed includes: paper towels, paper plates, and heavy duty garbage bags. The Humane Society’s “Wish List” includes: Friskies Classic Pate Salmon and Friskies Classic Pate Mixed Grill, which the cats really love, and Science Diet adult dog or cat food. For those who would like to volunteer, call 986-2473 or visit www.wvhumane.org.