Animal lovers throughout Indian River County have a wonderful opportunity to support senior rescue dogs next month during a celebration of music, food, and community spirit. H.A.L.O. No-Kill Rescue is hosting its annual Woofstock fundraiser, an event specifically dedicated to helping older dogs find comfort, medical care, and forever homes.
The festivities are scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event will be hosted at the popular Pareidolia Brewing Company in Sebastian. This gathering is not just about fun; it serves a critical financial purpose for the rescue organization.
The event acts as a major fundraiser for older dogs in need of homes, with a significant incentive for donors: contributions will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000 by the Doug McDowell Memorial Fund.
Attendees can look forward to a relaxed afternoon featuring the acoustic sounds of the duo HairPeace, who will be performing classic oldies. For those looking to grab a bite, the Off The Hook Food Truck will be on-site serving up local favorites. Most importantly, guests will have the chance to meet and pet adoptable senior dogs who are currently searching for their new families. The event will also feature raffles with various prizes to help drive donations.
Celebrating a Legacy of Compassion
The matching grant is made possible by the Doug McDowell Memorial Fund, a charitable initiative deeply rooted in the Sebastian community. The fund was established to honor the memory of Douglas N. McDowell, a dedicated local animal lover and advocate for senior pets, who passed away in December 2018 at the age of 66. His wife, Cheryl Trotta, created the fund to ensure his legacy continues by providing resources for older rescue animals, which are often statistically less likely to be adopted than puppies.
About H.A.L.O. No-Kill Rescue
Founded in 2006, H.A.L.O. has established itself as a pillar of animal welfare in the region. The organization operates under a no-kill policy and has saved thousands of animals over the last two decades. They specialize in finding placement for “hard-to-place” pets, including senior cats and dogs that often require extra medical attention or patience.
Last year, the community stepped up significantly, helping the nonprofit meet its $25,000 match goal and raising a total of $50,000 for its senior residents. Organizers are hoping for a repeat of that generosity this March.
How to Participate
Residents who cannot attend the event at Pareidolia Brewing Company in person can still participate in the matching grant challenge. Online donations made through the rescue’s website are eligible for the match. To donate or learn more about adoptable pets, visit halorescuefl.org or call (772) 589-7297.
