Barking, tussling and romping are certain to be among many lively activities set to take place at a doggie soiree celebrating the adoptions of five Cairn Terrier mixed pups and their mother, Lilly.
Tony Felix of Willoughby, who, along with his wife Dolores is hosting the pooch party, said he’s doing so “because we need to do something for these puppies.”

Last winter, soon after Dolores notified the Eastlake Rescue Center that the couple would like to help out as foster canine caretakers, they were asked to take in a very pregnant Lilly.
The stray, picked up in Pike County, was scheduled to be euthanized on Christmas Eve, four days before the Felixes welcomed her into their home.

Six days after settling into her new digs the tiny puppies made their grand entrance.
Tony, who is retired, said even though Lilly was a great mom and did a stellar job of birthing and caring for her youngsters, he was overseeing everyday activities 98 percent of the time.
“It was tough,” he said.

Already caring for two dogs of their own, two of their son’s dogs, three tanks full of fishes and a a trio of parrots, the Felixes knew the newbie pups needed to be placed with other families.
Through concentrated networking with relatives and friends, a home was found for each. However, the Felixes couldn’t resist keeping one pup, and JoJo now is part of the family.
He’ll greet his siblings at the party which not only will provide special fun for the pups, but their caregivers as well. A backyard barbecue, Bingo and time for swapping lots of doggie stories are planned.

The Felixes have been busy purchasing animal-themed décor and treats for the party and are still drumming up fun ideas for the day. Tony said he hopes it will become an annual event.

“Six lives were saved,” he said with a happy, satisfied smile, and that's something the Felixes don't want to forget.

— Jean Bonchak