Animal rescue finds permanent shelter

AUGUSTA — One Step Closer Animal Rescue has just achieved its “Next Step” goal of acquiring a permanent shelter at 155 Sparta-Stanhope Rd. in Hopatcong (Andover), having previously operated out of a foster network. The deal was closed at the beginning of April and the shelter is scheduled to officially open mid-June.
“We’re looking to accumulate $60,000 for maintenance and repairs,” says Cassie Kowalchuk, who founded the no-kill non-profit organization in April 2010.
According to Kowalchuk, all rescued animals receive proper veterinary attention and vaccinations, including spaying and neutering.
“When we first started the rescue, we were able to save three animals a month,” Kowalchuk said. “Now, we rescue five to 10 animals a week. More volunteers means we are able to save more lives from desperate situations and pets from overcrowded euthanization shelters.
This Saturday, May 7, the rescue is hosting its second annual 5K-9 run/walk beginning at 9:30 a.m. and 1K-9 Fido Fun Run/Walk at 10:15 a.m.— the latter open to pooches — at the Sussex-County Fairgrounds. All 5K-9 participants enter upon admission to win raffle prizes.
Pre-registration will cost $30 plus a $2.50 sign-up fee for a 5K-9 race, and applications are available online at https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Augusta/OSCAR5K9Run1KFidoFunRun. Racers ages 18 and under register for $15 online plus a $2.50 sign-up fee. Teams of five registrants receive a $5.00 discount per individual.
The $30 registration will still be available the day of the event. Fido Fun Run admission is $5 per person and $10 per family.
“Andy Ball with Main Street Events in Sparta contacted Cassie about hosting a 5K fundraising event, and I volunteered knowing it was something I could really get into,” said O.S.C.A.R.’s Race Coordinator Brian Harms. Harms, a five-year volunteer for the rescue, planned last year’s 5K-9 USA Track & Field-sanctioned 500-point race.
Mark Raab participated in the planning as the rescue’s Fundraising Coordinator.
After the race, there will be a rescue booth set up until 4 p.m. at the Northern N.J. Pet Expo, a yearly-attended event featuring Nickelodeon’s Blue’s Clues and vendors.
The Expo is presented by the New Jersey Herald and sponsored by Father John’s Animal House, O.S.C.A.R., Advanced Veterinary Care, PetCure Oncology and Power Home Remodeling Group.
The Expo will accept donations at the door: encouraged items include dog/cat food, toys, cat litter, dog leashes, garbage bags, towels, paper towels and pet-safe cleaning supplies. Admission to the Pet Expo is $3 per person while children under 12 and pets are free.
Individuals that attend the 5K-9 race will receive a coupon for a deduction in the Expo entrance fee.
Gift certificates to local restaurants will be given out as prizes to the top three male and female 5K-9 winners. The rescue will be selling 200 raffle tickets at $10 apiece for $1,000 worth in prizes that will be drawn at the end of the Pet Expo.
“Last year, we had over 100 runners,” Kowalchuk said. “We want to continue to grow the event and make it a huge success. We always strive to create fun events that everyone—adults, kids and dogs—can enjoy.”
“I believe that O.S.C.A.R. is a great organization moving in the right direction,” Harms said. “All K-9 race funds will help the rescue get where it needs to be cosmetically in renovating the new shelter, which is already equipped with 40 interior/exterior kennels and a separate cattery.”
The organization asks that 1K-9 participants with four paws be social with other animals, up-to-date on standard vaccinations/licenses and on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Puppies must be at least six-months-old to participate in the Fido Fun Run.
To donate to O.S.C.A.R. or volunteer, call (973) 262-2344 or email OSCARRescue@yahoo.com.