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Date: 9/20/2023
MONSON — The countdown has begun for the much-anticipated Cruise for Critters to Westview Farms Creamery on Saturday, Sept. 23. Sponsored by Service Connection of Monson, this beloved car show is now in its 11th year of making meaningful impact on the lives of pets in need at Second Chance Animal Services.
Founded in 1999, Second Chance Animals Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization. They operate community veterinary hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield and Worcester, providing access to the highest-quality veterinary care for all.
Chief Development Officer Lindsay Doray said, “Our hospitals offer subsidized pricing to low-income families so, as you can imagine, the need is great. Currently there is a nationwide veterinary shortage, which is making it harder for anyone to get appointments.”
She went on to say, “The number of people struggling to afford basic necessities like housing and groceries is having a huge impact on the pets. More and more people are in need of our services as they struggle to pay for medical care for their pets. Our goal is to be able to help as many pets as we can through our services.”
Last year, Second Chance was able to help over 44,000 pets. Since COVID-19, pets have been staying in shelters longer than previously and given the current inflation, more and more people are struggling, which means more and more pets need help. This year, their goal for the amount raised at the Cruise for Critters Car Show is $10,000 to $12,000.
Service Connection Owner Al Widlan has been hosting this fundraising event for over a decade. He had an idea to put cars and dogs together which has become a light of hope for furry companions across Massachusetts.
“This event is made for dogs in need, so I want to do as much as I possibly can.” Widlan said. “It’s a great day for a great cause and I encourage car aficionados to join in on the fun at an amazing venue.”
The festivities are set to begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m. There will be of food, homemade ice cream and fall-themed activities for attendees of all ages. From pumpkin picking to navigating through a corn maze, a vendor fair and a Halloween Barktacular kids’ games.
“This year’s vendor fair will be the largest ever for our car show,” Doray said. “Attendees can browse hand-made items, shop for unique gifts, and meet the artists. There will be items for pets, people and their homes including treats, candles, woodwork, prints, jewelry, clothing, photography, and so much more.”
In addition, Spare Parts will be on hand to provide entertainment and attendees can have a chance to win some great raffle prizes. It’s free to spectators and there’s a $20 show car entry fee with every dollar supporting pets in need. In case of bad weather, the rain date is Saturday, Sept. 30.
For more information on sponsorships or to become a vendor, visit secondchanceanimals.org/events/cruise.