Many people consider their pet part of the family; they treat them as if they were their own flesh and blood. That is why there is no surprise the Humane Society would have such success with their annual fundraiser, the Best Friends Calendar.



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The Lee County Humane Society is a non-profit organization that has been open since 1974. The society was created to provide a home to stray and unwanted animals and to provide education and awareness to the communities of Auburn and Opelika.

The idea for a calendar came about 10 years ago. The Lee County Humane Society wanted to create a fundraiser that showcased pets.

“The shelter decided to produce a calendar to be a celebration of pets that people can share throughout the year,” said Stacee Peer, director of public relations and development for the Lee County Humane Society.

This year 52 pets are running for a spot on the calendar. The top 10 pets that receive the most money will be featured as pet of the month. The pet that collects the most money overall will received the coveted spot, the front cover. Also, a local artist will pick a “Best in Show” and that pet will receive a month as well.

Pets running for the calendar are not limited to just a dog or cat. This year a horse even has a spot in the contest.

“Looking through old calendars I may have seen a mouse or rat in some of them,” said Peer. “We try to make it all about the pets.”

Participants can go online and pay a $1 per vote; votes are unlimited. All the proceeds will go towards benefiting the animals of the Lee County Humane Society.

“Last year we raised over $8,000 and we are hoping to raise that much and even more,” said Peer. “This year we have added ads to the calendar, so we have had a lot of support from businesses with in the community.”

The contest has had a lot of support this year. Peer said people have been voting online and mailing in voting forms. The last day to vote is coming up quickly. The contest will end Sept. 11.

“We’re planning on wrapping up the contest at Keisel Park this Saturday at our fundraiser event, Woofstock,” Peer said.

To vote for your favorite pet go online to www.leecountyhumane.org. It is a $1 per vote.