WESTFIELD-Santa Claus loves all creatures – in all shapes and sizes – as evidenced Saturday morning at Westfield Feed.
Chip and Ollie Pascuzzi have their close-up with Santa Claus.
In years past, close to 150 animals and their owners came to have their photo taken with Santa as part of a popular fundraiser, Pet Photos with Santa, hosted by volunteers of Open Arms Rescue, Inc.
“This year was a bit smaller than usual, but still a good turn out,” said Gwen Denis-Pignatare, president of Open Arms Rescue, Inc., which was formerly known as the Friends of the Westfield Animal Shelter, Inc. “We also handed out a lot of treats to those waiting in line.”
Founded in 2010, Open Arms Rescue specializes in animal rescue, fostering and adoption. Additionally, the group provides financial assistance for lifesaving veterinary emergency services for dogs if the owners qualify.
Gunner and Cueball LaBrecque cuddle with Santa.
Members feel strongly that offering emergency vet care assistance can allow families to keep their beloved pets healthy and in their homes instead of turning to euthanasia or surrendering them to a shelter.
Open Arms Rescue is solely staffed by volunteers and is spearheaded by a board of directors including Denis-Pignatare; Erin Merriam, vice president; Maria Vancini, treasurer, and Donna Sue Gideon, secretary.
Buffy Barber enjoys her time with Santa.
Now in its fifth year, the pet photos day is a popular fundraiser which is a win-win for all. Denis-Pignatare noted that on Saturday, goats along with cats, kittens, dogs and puppies joined the fun.
“It was awesome,” she said, adding, “We also conduct an annual golf tournament to raise funds and we recently hosted for the first time a Paint Craze Night which was well received.”
Merriam added that a new service this year was the capability of printing the photos on-site and the owners were able to take them home. Patrons were also offered a digital file option that could be e-mailed.
“We had props including ties and scarfs for the pets to wear,” said Merriam, adding that “goody bags” were also given to owners that included a Westfield Feed coupon.
Katelyn and Jeffrey Horky pose with Sophie and Santa Claus.
Donations by area residents help fund projects throughout the year including the purchase of necessities for dogs in foster homes and providing medical care and assistance to dogs in need, according to its website.
For persons considering making last-minute donations before the end of the year, Open Arms Rescue is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization so donations are tax-deductible. Donations can be made via the website, www.openarmsrescueinc.org, or by mail to: Open Arms Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 1821, Westfield, MA 01085.
Area residents interested in becoming a foster parent or in adopting one of the available dogs can visit the website for more details and submit an inquiry under the “Contact Us” link.
