Strange creatures help unleash Humane Society fund drive

Esther Short — Fantastical animals were all over the place when Imago Theater’s costumed “dog and cat people” swarmed the Oct. 5 dinner-auction of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. Plus, a fantastical ambition was announced, as HSSW director Stacey Graham launched “Unleashed,” a fund drive aimed at raising $6 million by the end of 2014 and achieving financial stability for the agency — which made news this year as Clark County delayed signing a new contract with HSSW because of the cost. “We’ve had a tough few years financially,” Graham said. “Heavy reliance on municipal contracts that … (are not) in alignment with actual cost and fees.” Four major donors have already committed $2.3 million, according to the Humane Society. The Humane Society cares for more than 10,000 animals every year. Learn more at southwesthumane.org.