Nuzzles & Co marks 35 years of animal adoptions, prepares for fundraising gala

The Nuzzles & Co fundraising gala includes a silent auction, dinner, and Snuggles Lounge. Photo: Nuzzles & Co.

PARK CITY, Utah — Since its founding in 1990 as a 12-person volunteer group, Nuzzles & Co has grown to be a cornerstone of the Park City community. To celebrate its progress and mission, the adoption organization is hosting a fundraiser gala, on Aug. 9.

The 2025 gala will be held at Pendry Park City from 5:30-9 p.m. and will feature Nuzzles’ signature Snuggle Lounge with rescue pups, a dinner, and silent and live auctions.

After over three decades, Nuzzles is nearing the 30,000th dog or cat successfully adopted, having saved hundreds of thousands of animals from being born into homelessness and protected many from harm in domestic violence situations through its Purple Paw Program.

Nuzzles & Co began as a grassroots effort with an initial $1,500 donation from Norman and Claire Weiss of Dolly’s Bookstore. At the first gala held in the 1990s, Nuzzles raised $600, a modest sum compared to the $500,000 they hope to raise this year in support of its work in rescue, adoption, the provision of low-cost veterinary medical services, and outreach work across Utah. 

“As I learned in this past year, the support of the local community has sustained the organization through its successes,” said Leslie Barcus, Nuzzles’ Executive Director. “While there are inevitable trials and tribulations in the life of any organization, Nuzzles’ thoughtful supporters have kept their perspective on the organization’s vital mission to save innocent lives.”

Supporters wanting to attend the 2025 Nuzzles Gala may purchase tickets, bid on silent auction items or sponsor the event by visiting https://nuzzlesandco.org/Gala. Those who cannot attend but would like to support Nuzzles’ work may donate at https://nuzzlesandco.org.