Hope’s story gives ‘paws’ to reflect on animal abuse

Hope was tied to a tree with electrical cord and left for dead.

On July 7 in in Atlanta, Ga., Shane Smith found the dog, which became his motivation to found Paws for Hope and Faith, an organization urging an end to animal abuse.

“Everyone who hears Hope’s story has been touched by it in a special way, and we would like to invite global governments to recognize our efforts and become involved with our peaceful cause,” Smith said in a press release.

From its roots in the southern U.S., Paws for Hope and Faith has spread north across the Canadian border and is set to hold an event on Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. at The Sidewalk Café, 1344 Danforth Ave.

“Hope has become the face of anti-animal abuse,” said Siggie Eini, the head organizer and a committee member of Paws For Hope and Faith in Canada. “Her [alleged] abuser is being charged with a felony count of aggravated cruelty to animals.

“This never happens. It’s really rare where someone gets charged in the proper way.”

Local businesses, including Starbucks, My Dog Spot and The Wine Rack, are participating in the Oct. 15 event by donating prizes to be raffled off throughout the evening.

“This is a really great fundraiser,” said Suzanne Toth, who read about the event as she passed by My Dog Spot. “It’s nice to see that the community is dedicating a night to these animals who cannot speak for themselves.”

Money raised at the event — which is set to include live entertainment, games and raffles — will go to the Toronto Humane Society with the aim of spreading awareness about animal abuse, including Hope’s story.

“We can’t change who these people are, but we can let them know that they can get jail time and they better think twice before they hurt an animal,” Eini said.

Anyone interested in more information about Paws for Hope and Faith in Canada or the Oct. 15 fundraiser is asked to email Eini at [email protected]