Bark & Bowl to benefit Wicomico Co. Humane Society

Weeks may have passed since hundreds of dogs were rescued from an alleged puppy mill operation in Eden, but the outpouring of support still flows strong.

A joint fundraiser named “Bark and Bowl” was hosted by the Southbound Alley and Tito’s Vodka on Monday night.

Chris Van Sant is a co-owner of Southbound Alley.

“I have two dogs that pretty much run my life so I love dogs, my partner loves dogs and Tito’s does a big push,” Says Van Sant. “They [Tito’s Vodka] call themselves ‘vodka for dog people’. Anything that involves dogs or animals, they’re all for.”

Monday’s event is an effort to raise money for the humane society which recently took dogs under their wing.

In early April, authorities seized more than 300 from an Eden home in conditions they described as “deplorable”.

Van Sant explains the bowling alley wanted to put their heads together with the liquor producer. Tito’s sponsored two lanes, which were being used as one team by local business owners and celebrities, according to Van Sant.

He says Tito’s wanted to raise at least 3,000 dollars by the end of Monday night by donating 20 cents per point scored on the two sponsored lanes.

As for Southbound Alley, 25 percent of Monday proceeds will also go to the humane society.

Executive Director Aaron Balsamo described the community support as “amazing” when 47ABC caught up with him on Monday; however, he admits they don’t need any additional supplies.

He says funds collected through Monday’s efforts could be used beyond the rescued dogs from Eden.

“Money-wise, it could go towards health care for the dogs and the cats, as well,” Says Balsamo. “It’s starting to get to our busy season where we’re going to have a lot of cats coming in, so you know, the money helps to go toward those cats, as well.”

Van Sant says he’d like to see between five and ten thousand dollars raised all together, and he’s confident in the goal.

“We think we’re going to get there but you know, if I’m here at one o’clock bowling by myself,” He says. “We’re going to get there one way or another.”

If you could not make it out Monday, Van Sant says you can always drop off monetary donations at the bowling alley itself. It is located at 1524 S. Salisbury Boulevard in Salisbury.

The Wicomico County Humane Society will be holding their 22nd annual Cause For Paws walk on Saturday. For additional details, click here.