North Fork-Based Animal Rescue Hosting Inaugural "Four Legged Gala"

The North Fork Animal Welfare League (NFAWL) is kicking off the holiday season by hosting its inaugural Four Legged Gala on Sunday, December 2, where the Mattituck Laurel Veterinary Hospital and The North Fork Animal Hospital teams will be honored.

Taking place at Giorgio's from 6 to 10 p.m., the evening will feature an open bar, cocktail reception, dinner, dancing, a silent and live auction - with exceptional items like a trip to the Greek Islands or Barcelona and Mallorca - more. There will be a live performance by The Rakiem Walker Project Band and fashion and beauty photographer, Sophie Elgort (whose brother is actor Ansel Elgort), will be onsite documenting the evening. Her portraits will be available to purchase as keepsakes.

NFAWL, which has been serving the East End community for the past 55 years, is expanding its reach with a newly acquired facility for the Riverhead Animal Shelter. "The funds from the Gala will support the renovations needed to get the new Riverhead Animal Shelter up to the codes as set by the Association of Shelter Veterinarians' Guidelines to Standards of Care in Animal Shelters," noted Gillian Pultz, North Fork Animal Welfare League Executive Director. "Anyone who wants to really help the homeless pets of Riverhead can do so by buying a ticket or a table to the event."

The North Fork Animal Welfare League operates two municipal animal shelters, which are located in Southold and Riverhead. The organization rescues, then nurses animals in need back to health, and once ready, finds them forever homes. They also step in nationally during dire situations like natural disasters. And, not only do they provide refuge, lifesaving medical treatment, and food, but NFAWLers are also groomed, exercised, and provided with enriching services while they await their new homes.

For the community, NFAWL offers a low cost and no cost spay/neuter program, as well as sterilization for community cats, and is a safe haven for the kittens of feral cats.

"In addition to revamping the existing structure, we are also tasked with creating a new feline intake and care center for the facility," Pultz shared.

Last year alone, NFAWL helped over 300 cats and dogs find their forever homes.

"This is extra exciting for us because for the first time in the town's history Riverhead Animal Shelter will also be able to rescue, rehabilitate, and either reunite or re-home cats!" Pultz reflected.

Attendees are encouraged to don "holiday festive" attire and tickets to the Four Legged Gala are $125.

Giorgio's is located at 100 Fox Hill Drive in Calverton. For more information, visit nfawl.org.

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Nicole is the Editor-in-Chief of Hamptons.com where she focuses on lifestyle, nightlife, and mixology. She grew up in the Hamptons and currently resides in Water Mill. www.hamptons.com NicoleBarylski NicoleBarylski