The event started off with a “social gathering” of dogs and their people. Dogs were able to get acquainted and mingle while their families did the same. There was a silent auction and a Chinese auc­tion to keep the humans busy while the dogs continued to socialize and take in all the sights and smells. One attraction everyone loves is One-Eyed Jack, the Frisbee-catching dog, who has been performing at every Strut for Mutts fundraiser to a crowd of his adoring fans. After a demonstration by One-Eyed Jack, the competition began. Dogs paraded around the park to “strut their stuff” for the judges. Many winners were chosen and awarded prizes and trophies in different categories. This year’s Strut brought in a record $6,767 for the animals at Beacon! Many, many thanks to Francesca and the Lanfranchi family!!

They Want A ... ‘Home’ for the Holidays!

Bruce: Young Male Black Labrador Retriever Mix. They call me Bruce, but you will call me the best dog you’ve ever met! I’m about 2-3 years old. Now the begin­ning of my life wasn’t the greatest. My owners never really had time for me, and I spent most of my first year living in a crate. As a result of this, I came to totally dislike my crate, so I don’t want a home where I will be crated. I love to go for walks and walk well on a leash. I’m also super friendly!

Scraps: Young Male Cairn Terrier/Pit Bull Terrier Mix. This unique little boy is Scraps. He is a young boy, about 1-2 years old, and only weighs about 25 pounds. Scraps LOVES to play with his toys; tennis balls are his favorite. He is a wonderful dog and loves to be around people. Scraps has tons of energy and will be a very devoted playmate and companion. He loves to go for walks with our volunteers, play and get petted. Scraps gets along well with female dogs and some, but not many, male dogs. Visit our website (www.BeaconAnimalRescue.org) to see a video of Scraps and one of our alumni, Jenna, playing in our yard.

Monty: Young Male Shepherd.

Monty’s Story: Found in Atlantic City, he was picked up off the street by the AC SPCA. When they rescued him, he was being mistreated by some kids, who were throwing stones and bottles at him. Only being about 4-5 months old at the time, this poor boy was badly trau­matized. He was taken into rescue and our trainer has been working with him. Although he is very shy and prefers the company of other dogs over people, there is NOT a mean bone in his body! He would do best in a home with another dog buddy, a fenced-in yard and a patient, loving family who’ll help to continue to help him gain confidence. He is a very special boy looking for that very special home.

Fitz: Adult Male Domestic Short Hair Cat. I am Fitz. I am a quiet and shy boy, but with a little love and attention, and a nice quiet home, I will prove to you that I can love and trust. I have lived here at Beacon for more than four years now (I’m about 6 years old). Even though I know they love me very much here, and tend to my needs, I think I would like to try out a real home instead of living my whole life in an orphanage. A home with a window sill and a scratching post, a big comfy rug in front of the fireplace in the winter time... this is what I dream of when I close my eyes. I hope some­day my dreams will become reality.

Gracie: Adult Female Domestic Short Hair Cat. Gracie has been a very pleas­ant surprise! She came in awhile ago, partially feral, but has turned around quite nicely! She now understands that people aren’t all that bad and has quite a few feline friends. Gracie has made friends very quickly in the cat room and the staff adores her too. A pretty little grey tabby, she would love to “grace” your home with her presence.