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 remains strong and grows 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 12th annual Fur Ball will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. April 9 at Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota, 2723 Fifth Ave. S.

This event is the biggest fundraiser for the local Humane Society. The money it generates helps pays for dog and cat food, cat litter and medicine for the animals in the shelter.

This year’s Fur Ball will feature music by Jessica McClintock. It will also feature silent and live auctions, a pet trivia game and dinner catered by Amigos.

Individual tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, call 955-8343.

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.