Bow Wow Ball will benefit Wayne County Dog Shelter
Funds raised from the upcoming Bow Wow Ball will help the Wayne County Dog Shelter provide dogs with essential medical care. Thus far in 2024, the shelter has taken in over 600 dogs and spent more than $75,000 providing that care.
The Wayne County Dog Shelter invites everyone to the annual Bow Wow Ball on Feb. 8 from 5-10 p.m. at Greystone Event Center in Wooster. Tickets are $65 each or $450 for a table of eight and may be purchased online at www.pawsforwcds.org/event/bow-wow-ball-2025, in person at the shelter or through any PAWS board member. It is recommended to purchase tickets early.
Promoting Animal Welfare for Wayne County Dog Shelter is a nonprofit whose purpose is to provide support to the shelter.
Previously known as the Bark Ball, the event began in 2016 with the goal of bringing together people who love dogs in order to raise awareness and funds for the shelter.
“We wanted to create an enjoyable evening where supporters could have fun while directly contributing to the medical care and services we provide,” shelter coordinator Kirsten Eshler said.
Thus far in 2024, the shelter has taken in over 600 dogs and spent more than $75,000 providing essential medical care.
“The funds raised from the Bow Wow Ball are critical in helping us continue this important work,” Eshler said, “ensuring we can provide the care and attention that each dog deserves.”
The ball has grown in size every year, with over 300 people attending last year. The evening will include appetizers, dinner, dessert and disc jockey services from Sparks Entertainment. There will be a wine and bourbon pull, as well as live, silent and online auctions featuring a variety of items donated by local businesses including overnight stays, trips and more.
“It’s a great opportunity to support a good cause while having fun with others who share your passion for animals,” Eshler said.
In addition to attending the Bow Wow Ball, donations are still needed for the event and are always needed for the shelter. Urgent needs for the event are wine, bourbon and items to raffle or auction.
Year-round donations support the shelter's spay and neuter programs, which are critical to controlling the local pet population. A spay costs $130, and a neuter is $100. Donations may be made at client.pointandpay.net/web/WayneCoDogShelterOH/, in person or mailed to Wayne County Dog Shelter, 5694 Burbank Road, Wooster, OH 44691.
The shelter is currently fully staffed; however, they frequently hire kennel attendants. Anyone interested is encouraged to check the website for open positions at www.waynedogshelter.org.
“We would love to have you join us for the Bow Wow Ball and help us continue to support the animals in our care,” Eshler said. “It’s a fun, impactful evening that helps fund the medical care our dogs receive during their stay with us. We'd be thrilled to have you join us.”