Fashion Show Goes to the Dogs

   All dressed up and nowhere to go. I doubt that will be the case this Sunday at “An Affair to Remember,” the Annual Pup & Cat Company Extravaganza at Carl House in Carl, on Hwy 29 just this side of Winder.

   Ursula Miller started Pup & Cat Co., her no-kill animal rescue organization ten years ago. At any given time the volunteer staff cares for about 100 cats and dogs and finds loving homes for about 600 orphaned pets each year. They rely entirely on foster homes and donations for support. Their goal is to raise enough money to purchase land and build a facility to house homeless pets. With property value going sky high and zoning regulations becoming more restricted, their dream is that someone out in the middle of nowhere will give them a good deal on a lot for their wannabe pets. 

   Miller’s pets live behind her house, in tiny bungalows and even an itty-bitty bus. As I toured the cats’ residence, I eyed Miller’s stained glass ornaments on the porch. Then I welcomed the loving licks of dozens of clean, congenial cats who lounged on carpeted feline furniture that matched the wallpaper. When I commented on the décor, Miller told me she used to make her living designing stained glass and hanging wallpaper, but now considers animal rescue her full time job. It appeared to me that she is already getting her animals used to a real home environment.

   To bring attention to their own cause, this Sunday Miller’s dogs will strut down the runway in finery for their annual fashion show. Dog models will range from Pomeranians and poodles to plain mongrels. (As gorgeous as they are, none of the cats will participate in the fashion show. After all, cats are cats.) The theme will be music and the model dogs and their foster parents will sport coordinated outfits to harmonize with their respective melodies. These aren’t uppity show dogs, but humble canines that have been trained and socialized to become members of a loving family. They are all fully vetted with shots, spaying and neutering.

   Trooper, a dog that suffered severe burns and required massive skin grafts for survival, will be among the models. After his accident, locals came to his rescue, including Carl residents Joey Webb, age 13, Mason Webb, age 9 and Chris Smith, age 13, who did extra chores to raise money to help keep him alive. 
The extravaganza includes dinner with a pasta station attended by chef, John Carter and Villaveces Cakes for dessert. A DJ will play favorite tunes while guests can bid for cruises and curios at a silent auction. 

   This Sunday evening, whether you’re dressed up or not, if you have no place to go, why not call 770-867-1622 or visit www.pupandcatco.com  for reservations. You and a newfound friend might discover you just go together. 

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