Skip to main content

Town of Huntington residents take part in the “Betty White Challenge” for dogs in need

People

by Chrissy Ruggeri | Wed, Jan 12 2022

Town of Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth and his Louisiana rescue dog, Louie.

We rely on your support to share good news!
Become a supporting member today.

Updated January 19, 2022 3:58pm

What better way for the (self-proclaimed) Capital of Long Island Dog Lovers to honor Betty White than to take part in the “Betty White Challenge,” a charitable endeavor encouraging fans of the late actress, who was an animal advocate, to donate $5 to animal rescues and shelters in her name.

In addition to local small business Nest on Main promoting the fundraiser on their Facebook page earlier today and providing a donation box at their store, Town of Huntington Supervisor Ed Smyth just endorsed the cause, too. “In honor of what would have been the legendary Betty White’s 100th birthday on January 17, I’m asking her fans – and all dog lovers who can afford to do so – to donate $5 in her name to our Give a Dog a Dream charity, which funds medically necessary surgeries for shelter dogs in need, or donate a wish list item to our shelter,” said Smyth.

Give a Dog a Dream Inc. is a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that specializes in veterinary care and advanced dog behavior modification training. In addition to funding surgeries, proceeds go toward behavior modification training for Town of Huntington Animal Shelter dogs.

You may also choose to donate directly to the Huntington Animal Shelter in East Northport, which takes donations of all types, including blankets, detergent and food, and has provided a wish list of items the shelter needs most, such as flat collars (sizes M, L, XL), flat leashes, treats and indestructible toys.

The Huntington Animal Shelter is located at 106 Deposit Road in East Northport. Due to COVID-19-related staffing shortages, the shelter is open by appointment only. Please call 631-754-8722 ahead of time to drop off items.

The Town of Huntington Cat Shelter, located next door to the dog shelter (at 104 Deposit Road), is managed by Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center. For details on donating to the cat shelter, please call 631-651-9788.

Update: Supervisor Ed Smyth announced the Town of Huntington Betty White Challenge raised $9,585 from over 451 donations for Give a Dog a Dream in one week. The Huntington Animal Shelter also received donations of collars, leashes and treats for the town’s shelter dogs.

“Our generous residents made Betty White proud,” said Smyth. “Huntington loves our shelter dogs.”

The Northport Journal thanks our Sustaining Sponsors and Friends and Neighbors for supporting local journalism: