Nashville Humane Association’s Cause for Paws Merges Fashion With Philanthropy

When fashion meets philanthropy, it’s always a good day. This year’s Cause for Paws brought together Nashville’s chic crowd and adorable puppies to support Nashville Humane Association’s lifesaving mission to help dogs and cats in the community. For 80 years, the shelter has done just that.

Guests arrived at Belle Meade Country Club in their most fashionable luncheon attire. At the reception, lovable — and sleepy — puppy ambassadors greeted guests, waking just long enough to happily wag their tails and give precious puppy kisses. Revelers enjoyed cocktails while browsing a silent auction filled with trips, spa experiences and more. Many also visited the sparkling Diamond Cellar display, which inspired some to buy a bauble or two.

Once everyone found their seats for lunch, the program began. NHA first thanked co-chairs Eleanor and Peter Cobb for their tireless passion for animals. Then, the organization presented the newly renamed Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare (formerly the Julia Colton Award), which now honors longtime supporters Julia and John Colton for their contributions. This year’s award went to Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation, which has awarded grants to shelters for spay, neuter and adoption services for 15 years.

“Shelters are more crowded right now than ever, and finding pets a safe place to land has never been harder,” Cathy said, with urgency. “That’s exactly why the work Nashville Humane is doing matters so much.”

After a rousing round of applause, it was time for the fashion show. This year, organizers partnered with Gus Mayer and Cinq à Sept to curate the beautiful looks that swept the runway. And, as is tradition, the puppy ambassadors who greeted guests made a few appearances on the catwalk as well.