By Jessica Medlin, PetSafe Marketing Research Specialist
On August 10th, PetSafe held its 2nd annual Black Tie & Tails Gala in our hometown of Knoxville, TN. The event benefits Morris Animal Foundation and supports their commitment to finding a cure for canine cancer. We, at PetSafe, are extremely passionate about this disease that will affect one in three of our beloved dogs. We know these statistics make this cause equally important to our followers, fans and dog-lovers everywhere. This dog-friendly gala was given 2 paws up by guests of all breeds.
The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour and a silent auction featuring items graciously donated by PetSafe and Morris Animal Fountain partners and supporters. Then dinner was severed and, with their personal escorts for the night, four-legged guests were escorted to our dog playroom so they could loosen their ties and wag their tails. After dinner, the live auction began and included some in-demand items, including an authentic UT helmet autographed Peyton Manning and an autographed Taylor Swift guitar with concert tickets.
Pictured right: Our Director of Animal Welfare and fearless leader of our canine cancer fundraising effort, Jim Tedford and Bao during an on-camera interview for local news media.
Pictured left: Our CEO, Randy Boyd, talks about PetSafe’s mission and our goal within the our communities to increase pet-friendliness. We were all challenged to continue to grow our efforts to make the world a better place for people and pets, near and far. 
Pictured above right: Former UT Women’s Basketball Head Coach Pat Summitt pictured with her dogs and friends. The dogs are just "resting" their eyes. Being a “dog socialite” will take it out of you!
Pictured right: One of our guests relaxes in the dog day care room while his human guests enjoy dinner. Don't worry, doggie guests enjoyed lots of toys and treats too. Just look at those eyes and that PetSafe Easy Walk Harness he's sporting!
Pictured left: Table centerpieces were a bouquet of PetSafe Busy Buddy Toys. At the end of the evening, guests were encouraged to grab a toy or two to take home with them.
The evening achieved the perfect level of fun and focus, with 170 human guests, 25 dogs in attendance together raising $38,000 for canine cancer. One guest stated that the gala is one of the best charity events he’s ever attended and that it will soon be the most anticipated event in Knoxville!
We can only hope that our 2014 gala raises even more funds to help eliminate canine cancer, and leaves gala guests wagging their ties and tails with joy.
