Wichita Falls community gets creative for shelter critters

One thing that is a parallel across all communities is a need for resources to care for pets in need of homes. Those in the Wichita Falls community are coming together to put on events to address this need. Through opportunities to create art and engage with cats and dogs in need of homes, some businesses and organizations in town are providing outlets for pets to find their forever families and creating awareness for the shelters and rescues that care for them.

April 11 was National Pet Day, and in response, the Wichita Falls Museum of Art (WFMA) hosted a “Sketch Shelter Pets” event. The museum partnered with Emily’s Legacy Rescue, Texas Pit Crew, and Wichita Falls Animal Services to provide an opportunity for dogs to visit the picturesque pavilion of the museum to meet potential adopters. The event featured the chance to draw the dogs, read to them, or – for those interested in adopting but unable to – decorate a pet rock to take home.

The event was a true example of community collaboration for a cause. Those who attended enjoyed watching puppies play, walking the dogs, reading books to them, and capturing their likeness through various art mediums. Many participants expressed interest in adopting dogs at the event, proving how effective the simple act of getting to know an animal can be in connecting them with their future families. Those who attended the event and met a dog they’re interested in, or those on the search for their furry family member can reach out to Emily’s Legacy, Texas Pitt Crew, or Wichita Falls Animal Services to learn how to begin the adoption process.

The event also shined a deserving light on the resources the WFMA provides the community. The museum regularly holds events focused on different artistic mediums that are completely free to the public, family friendly, and provide all necessary supplies for free. In addition, the creative events reflect the art exhibits that are hosted inside, just as the “Sketch Shelter Pets” event was tied to the “Framing Nature: Animals through Art” exhibition. Jennifer McLarty, the Education Curator, said she hoped the event and future events made the community more aware of the museum and other organizations in Wichita Falls.

“Such an event is beneficial to both parties – this time it’s the shelters, but sometimes we have musicians play in the pavilion, and sometimes MSU art students will set up booths to sell their work. The collaboration is a great way to promote both parties,” McLarty said. 

The event saw a considerable turn out and not a face in the crowd wasn’t covered in smiles – even the furry ones. The benefit of such events for the shelters is that the dogs hopefully find homes, but also that it demonstrates the staff and fosters that are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals in need. Because of this, those that want to help the cause but are unable to adopt or foster can show support by donating to these shelters and rescues. 

Amber Browning, the Founder of Texas Pit Crew said she loses more money than the rescue makes because of the cost of feeding and vetting all the animals. Running a rescue is genuinely something done for the sake of the mission – not monetary gain. While many rescues have higher adoption fees, these fees are a significant part of how they are able to fund the costs of running shelters and rescues. However, donations are also a big part of that.

The museum also benefits from donations, since they host their events and supplies for free. They have several exciting events coming up with the simple goal of getting the community to visit and connect with art. One of their upcoming, highly anticipated, events is their “Alice in Wonderland Tea Party” in which guests are invited to wear their favorite hats and enjoy tea on the museum patio, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Spring.

The dogs aren’t the only ones being provided a creative platform to shine either. Miss Fannie’s Friends Rescue is teaming up with Jason’s Deli and The Everyday Monet in another collaborative community event to find homes for deserving cats. Courtney Dickerson, the Secretary for Fannie’s said the goal of the event is to raise money and awareness.

The Everyday Monet will be providing supplies and Jason’s Deli will be donating a percentage of their profit from the day to the rescue. Dickerson said the funds from the event will help the rescue cover the costs of food and veterinary care for current cats in their care, and the ones they’ve yet to take in. She added that donations also help with their trap and release efforts, which is a significant way in which the stray cat crisis in Wichita Falls is addressed.

“I think collaborative events are really special because they bring people together in a meaningful way, around something they care about,” Dickerson said. “It’s not just about raising money; it’s about building a sense of community and support for our rescue.”

Dickerson went on to say that she believes creative events in particular provide a fun and natural way for people to come together and raise awareness for a cause. The event will involve painting a kitten portrait. It will take place April 30 from  6 - 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $32 a person, which includes a $10 donation to Fannie’s rescue. Tickets can be reserved by contacting Miss Fannie’s Friends Rescue, or by calling The Everyday Monet at (940)613-1254.