In honor of Betty White, an iconic actress and animal advocate who passed away at the age of 99 on December 31, 2021, Marion County Animal Services has announced that it will hold the Betty White Challenge every January in her name.
During the month of January, Marion County residents can visit Animal Services to adopt a pet by donating what they can for the adoption fees. According to Animal Services, these adoption funds will go directly to the improvement, well-being, and qualify of life for the animals staying at the Marion County Animal Center.
“Betty White was a great animal lover, and we appreciate her kindness and the legacy that she left behind,” said Jim Sweet, Director of Animal Services. “Her legacy is something that we want to honor. We will continue to make January an annual event in honor of Betty White. We think it is a great way to honor a great lady with a wonderful legacy.”
Wendy Hillyard, Animal Services Program Specialist, stated that since the start of the Betty White Challenge in January of 2022, more Marion County residents have become interested in helping the shelter through donations, adoptions, and volunteer work.
“Betty White was clearly an inspiration to those who believe in helping homeless pets, which is a gift to those of us working in the animal welfare field,” said Hillyard.
According to Animal Services, those who are unable to adopt can still help by making donations, which will improve the lives of all animals within the animal center. Donations can be made online, in person, or via mail to: Marion County Animal Services, 5701 SE 66th Street, Ocala, FL 34480.
For more information, visit the Marion County Animal Services website.