People & Their Pets III

Three South Florida animal lovers talk to SocialMiami about their pets

The Holidays are fast approaching and everyone is getting ready for them. It is a time of family and friends getting together, gift giving, joy, and celebration. Happy Holidays from Paws 4 You Rescue!!

Jennifer Diliz

Jennifer Diliz is a successful marketing and public relations professional who dedicates her time to community work and has a passion for animals. Jennifer is the proud owner of Cosmo and her rescued cat Bebo.

Pictured: Jennifer Diliz with Cosmo and Bebo (John Bouma Photography)

Mariana Cruz

Mariana Cruz is a dedicated animal lover, committed to donating time and money to help animals and organizations that protect and feed them. Mariana is co-partner in CruzJac Productions a television production company. CruzJac Productions is currently producing a project based on the true story of a dog that was lost by the airlines. The dog’s heartbroken owner went to Washington DC and fought to pass the “Safe Air Travel for Animals Act- S1193”. Mariana Cruz is the Chairperson for Catalyst Miami Prosperity Event 2011, which assists low income families and individuals. In addition, she contributes to the Natural Resources Defense Council in order to support the NRDC efforts to protect the gray wolves that are being killed, and the ASPCA.

Pictured: Mariana Cruz with Sugarcane (John Bouma Photography)

Valerie Barkley de Pearson

Valerie Barkley de Pearson is a French actress who was nominated for a Cesar award for her role in The Takeover with F. Murray Abraham and Robert Hossein. She lived in Paris most of her life and has been living in Florida for the past ten years. She and her family have been living in Miami Beach surrounded by ten pets: two parrot Macaws, six cats that she rescued at shelters, and two dogs. She loves animals and she regrets that their rights are not respected well enough around the world.

Pictured: Valerie Barkley de Pearson with macaws Paris & Hector and Cocker Spaniel Kiwi (John Bouma Photography)

Paws 4 You Rescue Raises $20,000 at Casino Night Fundraiser

Paws 4 You, a Miami-based not-for-profit animal rescue organization, hosted over 200 guests for a Casino Night fundraiser at historic Cauley Square. The event raised $20,000 from casino games that included blackjack, roulette and craps. Dinner and drinks were available from Village Chalet. and the Viva Rock Band entertained throughout the night. “We are so thankful to our guests and local businesses who contributed items to our auctions,” said Carol Caridad, executive director of Paws 4 You. “The success of this event is a testament to the goodwill, commitment and generosity of our community, who understand the importance of saving those that cannot save themselves.”

About Paws 4 You Rescue

Paws 4 You Rescue is a Miami-based non-profit 501(c)3, all volunteer, donor-subsidized animal rescue organization. Its top priority is to save animals from euthanasia at Miami-Dade Animal Services.

Rescued animals vary from being sick, injured, homeless and surrendered to simply lost. All animals are sterilized, vaccinated and ID micro-chipped to prevent future loss. Some require major surgery from a specialist to repair broken limbs while others may need additional rehabilitation time and specific medical care – ranging from respiratory illnesses and skin infections to cherry eyes and heartworm treatments.

Paws 4 You offers programs for adoption, fostering and senior citizens. Paws 4 You supports its mission by hosting numerous fundraising events throughout the year and through community donations.

Please visit www.paws4you.org for current information and additional details.