BARRACUDA LENDS SUPPORT TO ANIMAL SHELTER WITH CALENDAR SHOOT, SUPPLY DRIVE
Dec 5, 2024San Jose, CA - Back in November, the San Jose Barracuda hosted its first Pucks & Paws game, presented by Lagunitas Brewing Co., for the season. While it's a time for fans to bring their furry four-legged friends to the game, it's become so much more. It was a jam-packed few weeks featuring a shelter calendar shoot, a leash and collar drive, and live pet adoptions. Here's a closer look at how the hockey team played a starring role in supporting the shelter's mission.
Calendar Shoot: Posing for a Purpose
One of the big highlights of the Pucks & Paws game was the giveaway: a 2025 calendar featuring hockey players and adoptable pets. A handful of Barracuda players went to the San Jose Animal Care Center to pose with dogs on its "Most Overlooked" list. The shelter event volunteered two cats to spice things up. The photos were added to a school yearbook-themed calendar given away at the doors to the first 1,500 fans in attendance. The photoshoot was a hit with pet owners and provided a unique opportunity to showcase adoptable animals as well.
Leash and Collar Drive: Supporting Pets in Need
In conjunction with the calendar shoot, the event included a leash and collar drive to collect esesntial supplies for the shelter. Donations poured in, with fans bringing items to help equip the shelter's dogs with the necessary gear for walks, training, and adoption readiness. The drive also supports new adopters, ensuring they receive basic supplies when they bring their new pet home. The players took bags filled with the donations to the shelter a few days after the game and even put them on some adoptable dogs to make sure they fit!
A Generous Donation to Aid Operations
The Chuck-A-Puck sales from both Pucks & Paws games during the 2024-25 season are heading to the San Jose Animal Care Center. The funds will help the shelter provide enrichment programs, help new pet and foster parents, community events, and any medical expenses of the pets in their care as well as any partner rescue organizations. The center is always taking donations of new and gently-used pet care items and food. Find more information here.
A Successful Day for Shelter Animals and the Community
Overall, the first Pucks & Paws game for the 2024-25 season was a huge success. From the spirited calendar shoot and generous leash and collar drive, the days surrounding the game were a perfect example of teamwork for a purpose beyond the rink. We couldn't do it without your support, 'Cuda Country, so thank you!
The Barracuda's second Pucks & Paws, presented by Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Whiskey, is scheduled for Saturday, March 29. For tickets and more information, head to sjbarracuda.com/tickets/dogday24.