The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Chi Omega Gamma Zeta chapter raised more than $800 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation during the third annual Rent-A-Puppy event. 

The Oct. 28 fundraiser drew more than 150 people to spend 15 minutes with the puppy of their choice for $5. Spectators were drawn to the innocence of the furry animals, many contemplating the idea of adoption.

“In past years, we have raised around $500,” said Lacie Thomas, Chi Omega community service and philanthropy chair. “We are so excited that we beat that total, and we know next year we will raise even more than that.”

To aid in the event’s success, animal shelters and rescue centers in Central Arkansas, including Arkanpaws Animal Rescue, Mayflower Animal Control, and Little Rock Animal Village, provided puppies of numerous breeds, shapes, and sizes for rent.

“We really enjoy bringing our dogs down because not only do the students get to socialize and debrief from taking tests, but it’s also good for the dogs to be exposed to people,” said Danielle Maddox, director of Arkanpaws Animal Rescue.

The members of Chi Omega plan to continue this philanthropy for years to come, meaning that many more UALR students and employees will get the chance to rent a puppy.  

“It’s really stress relieving,” said UALR student Caleb Dather. “It’s comforting and it takes your mind off of things.”

In the upper right photo, a UALR student gets some quality puppy time during the Rent-A-Puppy event. Photo by Lonnie Timmons III/UALR Communications.