Omahan Connie Rivera loves dogs. In between work as an insurance agent, she's on the phone looking for homes for unwanted or abandoned dogs. After she volunteered with non-profit Wag N Train terrier rescue, Rivera say the financial challenges small rescues face. Vaccinations, grooming, and food all add up as rescues provide while looking for foster families.
"Since volunteering my eyes have been open to the astronomical costs to purchase used up puppy mill breeding dogs or unwanted puppies that did not sell at auctions, followed by the vet bills to get them healthy and on the road to their forever homes. The funds are raised from events held by the rescues and donations from supporters, Rivera said.
She had an idea: the 'cutest canine contest' comes in. Rivera and her partners at United Insurance Agencies & Affordable Auto Insurance decided to give back to the help the dogs she loves so much. The contest, which runs throughout the month of May, is open to all interested dog lovers in the metro area. Contestants can submit photos of their canine friends to the agency Facebook page. Voters should like their favorite picture through June 15th and the two photographs that receive the most likes will win. Winners will get to pick which Nebraska or Iowa non-profit will win $1000 or $500 in donations. Omaha area businesses Long Dog Fat Cat, Nature Dog, Clovis & Company, Le Peep, and Skyybox Grill & Bar are also donating prizes for the top five dogs.
"My hope is that the contest not only helps which ever rescues win save more dogs but that it also helps spread the word and educate people on the horrors these dogs go through and the many more dogs that never get the help and perish in these environments," Rivera said.
