Camp Bow Wowʼs Cupids & Canines Adopt-a-thon a Tail Wagging Success

Columbia, Md., Feb. 14, 2013 – Like so many other dogs, “White Lightening,” a four-year-old Great Pyrenees/hound mix, has youth on his side.  His caretakers, PetConnect Rescue, say he is known for his calm, gentle demeanor, and he does well with everyone he meets.

Nevertheless, like the six to eight million other pets that end up in U.S. shelters every year, having these traits had not prevented this lovable pup from becoming unloved. According to the Humane Society of United States, animals in shelters are the offspring of cherished family pets.

Fortunately, White Lightening, along with many other 50 or so wonderful canines who came out to Camp Bow Wow’s Fifth Annual Cupids & Canines Adopt-a-thon sponsored by The Petco Foundation and Hosted by Kimco Realty on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 10010 Baltimore National Pike, Enchanted Forest Shopping Center, Ellicott City, Md., were given an opportunity to have a new “leash” on life thanks to the generous contributions of more than 20 local and national businesses and 21 rescue organizations.  This year’s event proved to be a huge success with approximately 500 attendees and over 25 applications for adoptions received.

“Organizing The Cupids & Canines adopt-a-thon is our way of giving back and bringing potential pet-parents together with pups in need of a loving and caring home“ says Eric Neumann, co-owner of Camp Bow Wow, Columbia.

“We want individuals to know that there are wonderful rescues and shelters with plenty of adoptable animals ready to find their love connection,” he added.

Camp Bow Wow's Cupids and Canines Adopt-a-thon is a Valentine’s day-themed event designed to raises awareness of homeless pups currently under the care of rescue groups and shelters.

“Canines and Cupids was a great event,” said Vicki Korobkin of PetConnect Rescue. “Camp Bow Wow was very gracious not only in providing a wonderful assortment of beverages and food, but also offered assistance in both setting up and tearing down. There was a lot of traffic and many who were interested in learning about each rescue and their dogs in need. Camp Bow Wow did a terrific job in organizing and helping many dogs find their "forever" home. All in all, it was a “4-paws up” event!”

More than one thousand dollars was raised toward the Bow Wow Buddies Foundation. And, the giving does not stop there. A special Hurricane Sandy pet relief drive had been added to this year’s event to benefit the New Jersey shore region that was heavily affected by the storm.  Donations received include over 300 cans and 350 pounds of dog and cat food. 

Cupids & Canines has come a long way since it was started in the front lobby of Camp Bow Wow, Columbia, with four rescue groups. This year, Kimco Realty Corp. donated about 4,000 sq. ft. of store space, making this year’s event the largest yet.  The event has also grown from 4 to 21 rescue groups and shelters with this year’s attendance. 

About Camp Bow Wow

Camp Bow Wow is the premier doggy day care and overnight camp in North America. It’s where a dog can bea dog,® and is designed to provide the highest levels of fun, safety and service for its campers, and peace of mind for their parents.  Since the Boulder, Colo.-based company started franchising in 2003, Camp Bow Wow has sold more than 215 franchises in 38 states, plus one in Canada. As we grow, our simple philosophy remains the same: Itʼs all about the dogs.

About The PETCO Foundation

The Petco Foundation has served as a voice for companion animals across the country since 1999. Today,with more than 8,000 local animal-welfare partners across the country, the foundation donates approximately $15 million a year to make a difference in the lives of millions of animals. The organization is funded through donations raised during fundraisers conducted in Petco's more than 1,200 stores across the country, as well as from Petco associates, vendors and corporate contributions. Money raised helps fund animal-welfare organizations, spay and neuter efforts, animal-assisted therapy programs and humane education. The majority of the funds raised remain in the communities where they were raised, and the Petco Foundation is also involved in many national animal-welfare efforts.

Additional Sponsors

Other event sponsors include Wagging Tail Portrait, Safeway, Jillyʼs Bar and Grill, Clipperʼs Canine Café, Earth-Rated Poop Bags, and Bark! Pawsitive Petfood. For more information, visit Camp Bow Wow, Columbia, at www.campbowwow.com/columbiamd