The ASPCA Charm School & Talent Show was held on February 2nd to kick off “I Love NYC Pets” month which features adoption events by various New York animal welfare and rescue groups. The talent show introduced 13 adoptable dogs and their handlers, primped and ready to perform for the panel of celebrity judges (pictured from left): two-time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters, “Animal Precinct” host Annemarie Lucas, HOT 97 FM’s DJ Angie Martinez, and star of the latest season of “The Bachelor” Prince Lorenzo Borghese.
The canine contestants put their best paw forward, demonstrating skills such as skateboarding, carriage pushing, and piano playing while they were judged on their overall presentation, attentiveness to the trainer, and creativity of the commands.
“The talent show is testimony to how far these dogs have come since their arrival here,” says Gail Buchwald, ASPCA senior vice president of Adoption Center & Mobile Clinic Outreach. “Not only do we hope these pooches will find good homes, but we hope that throughout the month of February, animals lovers will visit the many adoption events taking place throughout the city and find a furry companion,” she adds.
The inaugural “I Love NYC Pets” month also promotes pet adoption by extending adoption hours at city shelters and offering special gifts to new adopters.