Move over, March Madness, a different kind of bracket competition is underway this month, and it\u2019s helping animals in need.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s called \u201cMarch Muttness,\u201d a nationwide, bracket-style fundraiser where animal shelters compete to raise the most donations and advance to the next round.<\/p>\n
The SPCA of East Texas is one of the participating shelters and has already advanced past the first round after raising more than $700.<\/p>\n
Now, the organization is preparing for its next matchup, with just 48 hours to out-raise its opponent and move forward in the competition.<\/p>\n
Shelter leaders say the need for support remains constant, with dozens of calls coming in each day and hundreds of animals relying on their care.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe did 967 adoptions last year. That includes our transport program and our animals adopted locally,\u201d said Emily Heglund, executive director of the SPCA of East Texas. \u201cServing 1,000-plus animals between intake and adoptions takes a tremendous number of resources, and we\u2019re doing our best to address the needs.\u201d<\/p>\n
The organization\u2019s goal is to raise at least $5,000 through the fundraiser to help cover costs such as food, medical care and life-saving treatments.<\/p>\n
While the competition is friendly, organizers say the impact is significant for shelters working to meet ongoing demand.<\/p>\n