Friday, October 30, 2009

Harry’s Bag—Helping Pets in Need


By Brianne Harrison

For many years, Harry, a rescue Scottie, was the unofficial greeter at his owner, Doreen Phillips’ Lambertville shop, No. 63. But after six happy years with Phillips, Harry passed away from cancer.

Not one to sit back and mourn, Phillips decided to honor Harry’s memory (and his habit of snooping in handbags searching for treats!) and founded Harry’s Bag. Harry’s Bag is a fund that provides funding for area pets in need of medical procedures their owners can’t afford.
“We have a lot of people in our community who own and love dogs but may not have the means to pay when unexpected health issues arise,” says Phillips. “When you experience the bond and love of an animal like we did with Harry, you can’t fathom all animals not having the same love and care.”

Harry’s Bag is starting to move beyond medicine—Phillips will be partnering with Picky Paws in Lambertville for Harnesses for Harry, providing harnesses for any dog who needs one.

What can you do? No. 63 is accepting good condition, resellable vintage bags as well as donations. One hundred percent of the profit from the sale of the bags goes to animals in need. Bags and donations can be sent to Number 63, 10 N. Union St., Lambertville, NJ, 609.397.2121. The shop is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11-6. If you know of anyone in the New Hope/Lambertville area who owns a dog who needs medical care or treatments and the owner is of limited means, contact the shop and speak with Phillips.

In other news…

Monmouth County SPCA has lots of cats—over 500, to be more precise—who are desperately in need of homes. In an effort to house these homeless felines, the shelter is offering deals: kittens up to four months of age are two for the price of one, and adult cats older than one year can be adopted for any donation. Potential adopters must meet the shelter’s criteria for adoption. For more information, visit monmouthcountyspca.org.

1 comment:

Arline said...

What a great opportunity to be part of a cause that helps animals who help people who help animals. Our pets are members of our family and a part of our everyday lives. When a family member gets sick not only does it increase the financial burden of the family, but the emotional burden as well. With the asssistance of your cause, the stressors are reduced thanks to you. I applaude Ms. Phillips for taking the time to help all of us who may be affected by a pet that may be in need of medical care. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving local families the opportunity to help an animal in need. You are a true inspiration.