Mary Catherine Morton and Liz Smokowski PHOTO BY KERRY FIRTH

Four lovable, well-behaved dogs greeted arriving guests at the annual Cause for Paws fundraiser to benefit the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County, each hoping to return to the shelter that night with the promise of an adoption.

Thor, a large black, mixed breed bully dog, with his handler Amy, was first in the reception line, literally smiling with buck teeth, and hoping to impress someone enough to give him a forever home. Raccoon, a medium sized mix; Future, a small Yorkshire terrier; and Tai, a tiny Maltese, were also jockeying for their chance at happiness.

The pups set the stage for a delightful evening of dining and socializing while raising funds to care for homeless pets at the shelter.

“Tonight, we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County and this is our 40th Cause for Paws event,” said Susan Schuyler Smith, board president, in her opening remarks.

“I know I’ve been to at least 30 of these events and I know there are people here who have been to even more.”

After thanking the sponsors and donors, board members, volunteers and staff, she introduced Liz Smokowski, who came on board in December.

“As the new CEO, I am deeply moved by the dedication and community spirit that defines our mission,” said Smokowski.

“Last year we had an increase of 643 animals needing our help. That’s an average of 53 extra animals per month. Our community is facing many challenges, ranging from a lack of affordable housing to restrictive rental policies and the escalating costs of pet care, but our shelter has been a beacon of hope.”

Statistically, the Humane Society impacted our community in 2023 by caring for nearly 3,900 animals. There were approximately 2,140 pets adopted, 560 pets reunited with their families, and 580 pets fostered. Additionally, 2,970 pets were spayed or neutered, and 6,860 vaccines were administered. All of this was done while maintaining a 95 percent save rate.

During the evening’s festivities, there was a comical fundraising game of heads or tails, with participants, who paid to play, eliminated by declaring heads or tails on a coin flip; the last one standing won dinner for two at Cooper’s. Next came the live auction featuring unique items including a private concert by Kurt Stevens, a private chef’s dinner for 12 and a getaway in Ireland, which was followed by a lively paddle raise.

A special visit by Brody, a large mixed-breed rescue who waited more than 200 days to find his home, proved that even the longest waits can lead to beautiful beginnings. His journey from stray to foster-fail to cherished companion warmed hearts and opened the wallets of many in attendance.

“Looking ahead we plan to expand our shelter program, hire additional staff and secure the financial stability we need to navigate whatever challenges come our way,” said Smokowski.

“I hope you join us to continue this beacon together as we ensure the story of the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County remains one of resilience, compassion, and endless love where every challenge is met with courage and every animal is given the chance to find happiness.”

For more information, visit HSVB.org.

Photos by Kerry Firth