Success is a term that easily springs to mind when recalling the Paws for Cocktails party last night at Zoe in Yellow.

People that had come together for the benefit of the dogs, found they were in good company and many old acquaintances were rekindled.

During a conversation with Otto Bercham, I responded to a question he asked “Are all these people volunteers?” by saying “no just a few …” and then I counted.

It was amazing to be able to count up to 20 people who are currently actively involved with Care for Dogs and on reflection the true number was probably more. All these volunteers, under the same roof at the same time, a wonderful and inspiring achievement.

In addition to the volunteers were friends and relations, people who have previously adopted dogs and some that would like to help in some way.

There were others that came along that were currently without their loved ones, either on their travels or fondly remembering their time together.

Soraya Holbrook is the person who we really must thank for initiating, designing and organising this event from start to finish.

Her idea, her effort, her heart, drive and determination. Soraya, we are so proud of you.

The following letter, addressed to all those that helped make the party run so well, is how Soraya expresses her gratitude:

In all the excitement last night, I neglected to properly thank everyone.

Thank you to all the contributors of raffle and auction prizes. These hotels, restaurants, artists and local businesses gave freely, out of their love of dogs and support for the work that Care for Dogs does. Without their kind donations we would not have been able to raise so much money.

Thank you to Reenie and Yianni of Zoe in Yellow Lounge Bar and Bistro for their tireless preparation, organization, peace-cheese making, fruit-juicing, bartending and all-around generosity. Lovers of dogs, former adoptive parents of Care for Dogs hounds, and care-takers of Snowball Columbus, they agreed without hesitation to open up their venue in support of this event.

Thank you to John, Jelly and Linc for donating their time and talent. Their hip shaking rhythms kept the party lively and upbeat all night. We scoured the town for a big-hearted band that was available and willing to play for free. Little did we know that the most perfect trio was to be found just down the road.

Thank you to all the volunteers at Care for Dogs whose untiring commitment stretches from picking up sick and injured dogs in the streets, cleaning the shelter, feeding, bathing, walking the dogs, administering medical care, organizing events, maintaining our website, performing accounting, to giving unconditional love to our four legged friends. The success of this event could not have happened without their undying support and hard work.

Thank you especially to all the dog lovers who came out to Zoe in Yellow to show your support for Care for Dogs. Among you were adoptive parents of Care for Dogs charges, travelers who are temporarily separated from your pets, people who have once lost a beloved dog, and expats and locals who just want to show you love and care for the unfortunate strays that roam their beloved Chiang Mai. Without you and your donations, Care for Dogs would simply not be able to do the work we do.

Bark-felt thank you’s to you all!!!

Soraya

Thanks indeed must go to Reenie and Yianni, for all their hard work, preparing and facilitating the event at their bar Zoe in Yellow, an ideal venue for this event and we were delighted that their special cocktail “Poochies Paradise” sold well, with all proceeds being donated to Care for Dogs.

Many other sponsors of the auction and raffle items came along too and without their generosity, we would not have been able to tempt so many people to part with their money, buying tickets and making bids for some wonderful rewards.

Everyone I spoke to seemed happy to be involved in this terrific event and I cannot help but remind readers that without fund raising events, adoption fairs and stalls at other locations, Care for Dogs would not be able to perform the work we do. Donations are critical to our work, financial, material or by means of physical effort, Care for Dogs needs support.

Next week, Care for Dogs will be attending the Nimmanheamin Arts & Design Promenade - The annual event - held during the first weekend of December - This is something about last years event Come and see us at Nimmanheamin Soi 1, 5 - 9 December 10am - 10pm! (Need directions ??)