Humane society needs photos, publishes book

Rosie, owned by Mitzi and son Logan Sewell, appears on the cover of “Second Chances: Rescue Dogs of Madison County.” (CONTRIBUTED)

HUNTSVILLE – The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has two events this summer that should have pet owners purring.

The ninth annual “Hot Dogs and Cool Cats” photo contest will help the society provide a safe haven and quality medical care for homeless animals throughout the city.

“The photos receiving the most votes will be honored as the cover pets for our 2014 ‘Hot Dogs and Cool Cats’ calendar — 14 in total, along with 70 pets of the week and three photographers’ choice awards,” volunteer Jennifer L. Price said. “That’s 88 chances to get your pet in the calendar.”

Price said the real winners will be the shelter animals that receive the society’s care. “Greater Huntsville Humane Society is a no-kill shelter, finds homes for hundreds of pets annually and is supported entirely by public donations, our thrift shop and fundraisers like the contest,” she said.

Online voting runs from July 1 to Aug. 4 (calendarcontest.org). Starting July 20, individuals can vote at Parkway Place Mall. Luzy Tribble’s cat Lillie appears on the 2013 calendar cover.

In other activity, two years of work will culminate in a book release party for “Second Chances: Rescue Dogs of Madison County.” “‘Second Chances’ is a coffee-table book about rescue dogs and their adopted families. The book has beautiful animals, heartwarming stories, great locations and incredible photos,” Price said.

The book cover features Rosie, adopted by Mitzi and son Logan Sewell in Colorado. “What makes Rosie’s photograph a book cover? Those eyes! Rosie is looking straight into the camera and straight into our soul. She is irresistible,” Price said.

The party on Aug. 29 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. will be held at Baron’s Bluff at Burritt on the Mountain. Guests will enjoy refreshments, drinks, a band and book signing. Price expects 500 guests to attend.

Tickets are available at greaterhuntsvillehumanesociety.org/second-chances-ticket.

The Greater Huntsville Humane Society’s address is 2812 Johnson Road in Huntsville. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call 256-881-5210 or visit greaterhuntsvillehumanesociety.org.