MONMOUTH COUNTY – Hundreds of animal lovers took the “plunge” into the ice-cold ocean to benefit the Monmouth County SPCA at their Second Annual Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge event.
Supporters joined together on November 26 at Belmar Beach to raise funds for the animal shelter, helping displaced animals find a forever home.
“The day was filled with food, music, costume contests, a 50/50 raffle and 50-degree temperatures. The plunge kicked off at 10 a.m. with a Pre-Plunge Party that featured breakfast, music and a kiddy pool filled for dogs to take a ‘plunge’ of their own to choose treats and toys,” MCSPCA Spokesperson Barbara Lovell said. “The official plunge kick-off occurred at noon with a welcome by MCSPCA Executive Director Ross Licitra when prizes were awarded for the best human and animal costumes. Individual participants as well as teams who raised the most funds also received prizes for their contributions.”
After awarding the prizes, participants stormed the beach and into the water. While beachgoers took a swim in the freezing water, their furry companions stood on the sidelines to watch their owners take the plunge.
The reason why the Monmouth County SPCA started this annual event is to raise funds to help care for the thousands of animals that come through the shelter every year. This year, they raised over $100,000, all thanks to the event sponsors and of course the plunge participants.
“This year’s polar plunge marks the first time a special award was presented for the youngest animal advocate participant: 8-year-old Finn Richard. Finn raised more than $700 as a ‘Puppy Plunger” and received the Nancy Voccola Warm Heart Award; the award celebrates and encourages youth activism for humane welfare,” Lovell said.
MCSPCA gave a special thank you to all the volunteers, the Belmar Police Department, EMS, and Belmar Beach that helped made the event successful.
The donate or to learn more about the MCSPCA, visit monmouthcountyspca.org.
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