On the Circuit: Fur Ball Gala

On a crisp autumn evening, avid animal lovers gathered at 14TENN for the Pet Community Center’s Fur Ball Gala — a crucial fundraiser for affordable veterinary care.

As Nashville’s first nonprofit vet clinic, Pet Community Center believes no one should have to surrender their pets due to financial constraints. For 15 years, the organization has provided accessible vaccines and spay-and-neuter services to keep pets healthy and families together.

Through door-to-door deliveries and monthly drive-through events, Pet Community Center also combats pet food insecurity. With no questions asked, the organization gives food and medicine to people in need, so community members don't have to choose between feeding themselves and their pets. 

At this year’s Fur Ball Gala, Pet Community Center’s mission took center stage. Energetic guests mingled with event chair Chip Wilkison during the cocktail reception, browsed animal-centric auction items and got their furry friends’ names stitched on colorful bandanas. 

More delights followed during dinner. Guests received pet toys and treats at their tables — a thank-you to the gracious cats and dogs who let their humans leave home for the night. 

District 19 councilmember Jacob Kupin shared what Pet Community Center means to him as a caretaker of 10 rescue cats. “There are countless cats and dogs that have wonderful, beautiful lives here that wouldn’t without Pet Community Center’s work,” he said.

Brandon Dyce, Pet Community Center’s president and CEO, thanked the crowd for celebrating 15 years of improving the lives of pets and the people who love them. Molly Reed received the Jourdan Parenteau Excellence in Service Award for her commitment to rescuing animals. And auctioneer Letitia Frye took the stage with her dog, Fozzie Bear, to raise spirits and funds for affordable pet services. 

The evening brought in over $315,000, which will help provide high-quality vet care to nearly 17,000 cats and dogs. 

To learn more about Pet Community Center, visit https://www.petcommunitycenter.org/.