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 stronger. As with so many other worthwhile endeavors, achieving laudable goals depends in part on raising the money necessary to support the cause. For the Humane Society, the Fur Ball is both an essential and fun way to generate needed funds.

The 13th annual Fur Ball will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. today at Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota, 2723 Fifth Ave. S. The Fort Dodge Police Department will conduct a canine demonstration at 6:15 p.m.

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

It will feature silent and live auctions, vendors, a 50/50 raffle and a pet trivia game. Food will be catered by Amigos.

Individual tickets are $20 at the door, with admission for those under 18 costing $8.

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 promises to be a lot of fun to benefit a great cause. Perhaps an evening at the ball will even inspire some folks to adopt a four-legged friend.

We encourage everyone to go to this special event.