In The News
IVEC salutes Tony Stewart Foundation with annual PETS Award
In spite of persistent rain that frequently turned into drenching downpours, more than 600 hardy animal lovers turned out recently for the 11th annual Original Pet Carnival sponsored by Indianapolis Veterinary Emergency Center (IVEC). Festivities were held on the IVEC grounds, 5425 Victory Drive, and featured displays and interactive booths from nearly 50 exhibitors.
The prestigious PETS (Professional Excellence Through Service) Award, presented annually by IVEC, this year honored the Tony Stewart Foundation for its outstanding service in the areas of animal welfare and rescue. Dr. James Speiser presented the PETS Award to Joni Thompson, executive director of the Tony Stewart Foundation, during the Pet Carnival.
The Tony Stewart Foundation - established by Columbus, IN native and current NASCAR Sprint Cup points leader Tony Stewart - supports three distinct areas: abused or endangered animals; critically ill or injured children, and injured race drivers. It is the Foundation's work in the areas of abused or endangered animals that caught IVEC's attention.
Over the past year, the Foundation equipped every dog in the Indiana State Police K9 Corps, as well as dozens of other K9 officers throughout the US, with bullet-and-knife-resistant vests. The Foundation also provided a sizable grant to Indianapolis-based Friends of Ferdinand to obtain, retrain and find new homes for 10 thoroughbred race horses, now known as "Tony's Ex-Racers."
Other animal-related organizations supported by the Tony Stewart Foundation include: US Equine Rescue League, Inc.; Purdue University School of Veterinary Science; Humane Society of Indianapolis; Brown County Humane Society; Exotic Feline Rescue Center; Tigers for Tomorrow/Untamed Mountain; International Exotic Animal Sanctuary; German Shepherd Rescue of New England; Labrador Friends of the South; Precious Paws, and the Indianapolis Zoo. Complete information about each group is available at: www.tonystewartfoundation.org.
"The work Tony and his Foundation accomplish in the areas of animal welfare and rescue epitomizes precisely what the PETS Award is all about," said Dr. Speiser, IVEC founder. "We are proud to recognize the significant work of the Tony Stewart Foundation, and at the same time pay tribute to an Indiana favorite son and his love and concern for all animals."
"In behalf of the Tony Stewart Foundation, it is with great pleasure and appreciation that I accept the PETS Award," executive director Joni Thompson stated. "The Foundation is committed to supporting animal welfare organizations in Indiana, North Carolina and throughout the US, and we thank IVEC for recognizing and honoring this commitment."
|
|
|
 |
  |
|
