It would be hard to imagine 21st-century America without pets. They contribute wonderfully to the happiness and well-being of people of all ages.

In a perfect world, every pet would at all times be a welcome and loved part of someone’s home. Unfortunately, reality falls short of that ideal.

That’s why it’s important to our community that the Humane Society of North Central Iowa remain strong and grow even more robust. As with so many other worthwhile endeavors, achieving laudable goals depends in part on mobilizing the financial resources necessary to support the cause.

The sixth annual Fur Ball will take place from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday at Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota, 2723 Fifth Ave. S. This event is an important fundraiser for the local Humane Society. It also is a chance for a festive evening featuring casino-style gambling with “funny money,” refreshments, silent and live auctions, music and dancing. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Almost Home Animal Shelter, Hy-Vee and Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota. They will also be available at the door.

The impressive Almost Home Animal Shelter operated by the Humane Society helps wonderful animals in search of loving human companions find appropriate matches. It also provides a caring refuge for those animals who for a variety of reasons aren’t immediately destined to be someone’s pet. Additionally, the Humane Society undertakes an important educational mission – teaching people how to be responsible pet owners.

The Fur Ball warrants the strongest possible community support.