Cove Animal Rescue brought tropical flair to Glen Cove, transforming its grounds into a lively luau in an effort to connect adoptable pets with new families while raising awareness about the shelter’s mounting financial struggles.
The “BowWow Meow Luau” featured raffles, vendors, and plenty of island vibes. Community members flocked to the shelter on Aug. 24 for the event, which resulted in three approved adoptions — including a pair of black kittens adopted together as brothers — and provided attendees with an opportunity to learn more about the challenges the shelter is facing.
Councilwoman Marsha Silverman and Councilman Michael Ktistakis, longtime supporters of the shelter, joined volunteers, families, and animal lovers in showing their support. Their presence underscored how deeply the shelter has become part of Glen Cove’s fabric, even as it navigates a financial crisis that threatens its future.
For shelter manager Diane Connolly, the luau was about more than just adoptions. “My main focus is to get the shelter more exposure — to get who we are out there,” she said. “We are different than most shelters, and we are a gem in the crown of Glen Cove.” Connolly added that the luau also helped build connections with new vendors.
Local businesses joined in the festivities, including first-time participant Joe Fradella of Levittown, who runs The Lemon Life, a business that donates a percentage of its profits to charity. “It is business, but a lot of the things we do is to give back to the community,” he said. Vendors were not charged to participate, as the shelter wanted them to feel welcomed and encouraged to return.
For many attendees, the luau was an opportunity to celebrate both animals and the community. Glen Cove resident and volunteer Mary Jean Caggiano, who regularly helps at the shelter, described it as a special place.
“I love animals and this is a wonderful shelter,” she said. “The animals are well taken care of, and I do whatever I can to help out. If you can’t adopt, please donate.”
Connolly noted that adoptions are always unpredictable.
During kitten season, the shelter may adopt out as many as 15 kittens in a month, while at other times, they go weeks without a single adoption. Dogs, especially older ones, tend to find homes more slowly, although puppies and small breeds often find homes quickly. The luau’s three adoptions were considered a success, with attendees traveling from as far as Brooklyn to meet the animals.
The event comes at a critical time for Cove Animal Rescue. The shelter receives $7,741 monthly from the city, which is less than half of what it costs to operate.
It faces rising veterinary bills, state-mandated facility upgrades, and an annual deficit of $50,000 to $60,000, despite receiving grant support. Payroll alone costs $15,000 per month. Connolly said that fundraising events, such as the luau and the upcoming Casino Night in September, are essential to keeping the shelter open.
Despite the challenges, Connolly remains optimistic. “We had so many people, and it worked out beautifully,” she said of the luau. “It was a small thing, but it brought people in, it got the word out, and it gave some of our animals a chance at new lives.”
To continue its fundraising push, Cove Animal Rescue will host its annual Casino Night on Sept. 16, at 7:30 p.m. at The Crescent Beach Club, 333 Bayville Ave., Bayville.
Tickets cost $150, which includes $200 in play money, a cocktail hour, dinner, music, an open bar, and silent auctions. Guests must be 18 or older to play at the casino tables. For tickets or sponsorship information, visit CoveAnimalRescue.org
