It has been raining stray cats and dogs all year. And the deluge continues, unabated.

Many of these animals end up at the local Oakdale Animal Shelter where staff and volunteers mount heroic efforts to ensure the animals get out to either adoption or rescues. It is a never-ending saga, and one that also takes resources to aid the shelter in helping the animals.

The Oakdale Shelter Pet Alliance (OSPA) is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to save and improve the lives of the homeless pets of the communities of Riverbank, Oakdale and Escalon. This mission includes the animals that come into the local shelter.

Lisa Dolling has been a member of OSPA for many years and she has seen the number of animals increase every year and the need for financial intervention grow also. To that end, she is organizing a fundraiser to fill OSPA’s coffers so the organization is well funded and poised to help in the coming years.

“The need is overwhelming because there are so many more dogs and cats now,” Dolling said. “The money we raise goes directly to the animals. We pay for vet bills, sponsor adoptions, fund spay and neuter surgeries, donate to local rescues that take our animals, shelter improvements and even pay for transport.”

All in the name of helping dogs and cats get out of the shelter so they can go on to live their lives in loving homes.

“These actions make a huge difference in the outcomes of these deserving pets,” she said.

The fundraiser is shaping up to be a successful endeavor. Dubbed Tails and Tunes, the event is slated for Sunday, Oct. 20 at Dying Breed Brewing, 963 Shepard Court, in Oakdale. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the public will be able to enjoy an afternoon of brews and live country-rock music offered by Barbie and the Deplorables, featuring local musicians. A pizza truck will be serving pizza to go with the brews and other beverages.

“It’s going to be a good time,” said Dolling. “Enjoy the afternoon at this family and pet friendly event and just relax while your donations benefit animals in need.”

There will be games and opportunities to win prizes along with the live music.

“Donations are not required but appreciated. We will be taking donations at the door, and there will be raffle opportunities as well as fun activities for your entertainment,” noted Dolling. “We couldn’t do all we do without the community’s support, so we are hoping for a big crowd. The venue is so nice and such wonderful people allowing us to have our event there.”

Helping OSPA is an absolute direct way of easing the suffering of homeless animals in the community. Dolling hopes residents from all three communities – Oakdale, Riverbank and Escalon – will come out for this effort on behalf of the animals.

“Having a good time while raising funds to help our shelter animals is a winning combination,” she said.

This article was provided courtesy of OSPA member Laurie Fanjul.