MEDFORD, N.Y.–Suffolk Federal’s first-ever All American Pet Paw-Rade & Adoption Celebration saw many four-legged friends find homes. But, at last, Dory herself was finally found at the free Long Island event by a young boy named Benicio Gobourne who traveled all the way from Massachusetts to find his new best friend.
Benicio attended the spectacular Pet Paw-Rade with his mother and grandmother and instantly fell in love with the little fish, the credit union said. After some easy negotiating, Dory was no longer traveling the dark seas, and instead was on her way back to New England to live with her new best friend and her forever family.
Huntington-based Reef Scape Aquatics, a leading tropical fish and custom tank and pond maintenance store, provided Dory the opportunity to find her new family and even donated a take-home aquarium for Dory’s new life.
Sponsored by Suffolk Federal, the “Pet Paw-Rade” attracted an abundance of spectators who lined up to watch furry and finned models, including dogs and ferrets, show off their freedom as they strutted down the “catwalk” in patriotic outfits. With a little assistance, Dory herself was even a participant in the Independence Day-themed event. Spectator kittens watched from the sidelines while the “Pupparrazzi” made sure to get in on the action.
Suffolk Federal capped off the wildly successful event by donating over $3,000 to local animal rescue and welfare charities, many of whom who were in attendance. Food and pet supplies were also collected and donated toBaxter’s Food Pantry of Long Island Cares - the Harry Chapin Food Bank. The donation will provide support to family pets in need through the LI Cares network.
“We are pleased to have hosted such a wonderful event that provided so many families with happiness and so many pets with their new homes,” explained Ralph D. Spencer, Jr., President & CEO of Suffolk Federal. “No matter the species or size, pets are a part of our families and it is so important to provide them with a safe environment and to make sure that every precious pet receives their very own best friend and home,” he continued.
The All-American Pet Paw-Rade & Adoption Celebration was created by Suffolk Federal to encourage pet adoption and build awareness for the efforts of local rescue and welfare groups to protect animals while promoting humane treatment, offering education for responsible animal ownership and care and providing crisis programs for animals in need.