Betty White still touching lives

January 17 was a big day for animal welfare. The #BettyWhiteChallenge encouraged people to celebrate Betty by donating $5 to a local pet rescue or shelter in honor of her lifelong love and support of animals.

Locally on January 18, countless groups posted celebratory messages of thanks. While the campaign suggested individual donations of just $5, one local group — Oregon Dog Rescue — reported their average donation was $37.

The group stated in a post, in part: “**$32,715** is how much you all raised yesterday in honor of Betty White! We owe you all the biggest tail wagging thank you for coming together to celebrate such an amazing woman. This is by far our largest fundraising day to date, and we are so, so very grateful.

$32,000 is about a standard month of basic vet care for the dogs that come into our care. This includes spay/neuter, vaccines, microchip, flea treatment and dewormer. Many dogs need treatment beyond our basic care.”

Said Kimberly Harney of ODR: “I have never been so overwhelmed in my life! (In the best way!) What a wild day & WOW!! This will help SO many dogs!!! . . . Thank you!!”

We thank all who donated during the Challenge, and those who contribute throughout the year, through donations and sharing media posts about animals in need. Finally, huge thanks to those doing the hands-on work — with tireless heart and grit.

Betty left us this year, but her spirit and love of animals continue to inspire so many. Safe to say, wherever she is, she is smiling — and hugging a furry companion.