EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso Animal Services is bringing back a popular fundraiser that pairs shelter pets with local firefighters, with proceeds aimed at expanding low-cost services for the community.

Julie Neupold, public affairs coordinator for El Paso Animal Services, said the agency is restarting its “furry friends and firefighters calendar” in collaboration with the fire department. The last time the calendar was produced was in 2020.

“It’s a little more than 12 pets, give or take,” Neupold said of the animals expected to be featured. The pets are selected in part based on temperament to ensure they are comfortable during the photo shoot and while being paired with a firefighter. The calendar will also highlight animals that are still waiting to be adopted.

“Maybe by the time this calendar goes out, hopefully they already found their forever homes, but if not, then it’ll also just spotlight them and the thousands of other pets that are waiting for their second chance,” Neupold said.

Neupold said the calendar is expected to be available for purchase starting in November and will be sold throughout the holidays. Community members can find updates through El Paso Animal Services’ website, ElPasoAnimalServices.org, and the agency’s social media pages.

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Neupold also thanked volunteer photographers for donating their time and talent, including Capture That Pooch and its Rescue Reshot Project. She said the group regularly photographs shelter animals to help improve their chances of being adopted.

“A picture can change an entire outcome for the pets there,” Neupold said.

Proceeds from the calendar will support free and low-cost spay and neuter events, low-cost and free vaccines, microchipping programs, and other needs aimed at improving the quality of life for animals in the shelter, Neupold said.

As for availability, Neupold said the agency is partnering with a print-on-demand company, meaning there is not a set number of calendars being printed and the fundraiser can meet demand.

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