Community events support increasing demand for assistance dogs

Nonprofit

May 1

Amid rising demand for assistance dogs, Paws With A Cause is inviting the community to attend two events in May aimed at raising awareness and support: Little PAWS Create Big Changes on May 14 and the second annual Hats & Hounds fundraiser on May 22.

According to Paws With A Cause, the number of submitted interest forms has nearly doubled from 2023 to 2025.

Hosted by custom window treatment provider Gotcha Covered of Grand Rapids, Little PAWS Create Big Changes offers an opportunity to meet foster puppies in training and volunteer puppy raisers. The event is May 14, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 4444 Breton Rd SE, Grand Rapids. The evening will feature cookies from Connie's Cakes and giveaways from PAWS, Thornwood Veterinary Clinic, and Beer City Dog Biscuits.

"My husband Tom and I are longtime supporters of Paws With A Cause, having fostered PAWS puppies three times," said Judy Cisler, Owner, Gotcha Covered. "The PAWS foster puppy raiser community provides a wonderful source of friendship and support."

The festivities continue with Hats & Hounds on May 22 at 6 p.m. at Wildwood Family Farms, 7970 Snow Ave SE, Alto. The southern-inspired fundraiser features bluegrass music from Round Creek Trio, food and beverages, games, raffles, and a best-dressed hound and handler contest.

"There is a growing need for assistance dogs, and the need for financial support continues to grow as well. With the challenges of inflation and the uncertainty with the economy, we need more help from our community to continue this life-changing work," said Ashley Diersch, Chief Advancement Officer, Paws With A Cause.

Personal pets are welcome at Hats & Hounds but must be over 16 weeks old, fully vaccinated, leashed, and under the control of their owner at all times. Tickets are $25 and include all food and drinks. Learn more at www.pawswithacause.org/news-events/annual-events/.