Watermelon Mountain Ranch hosting Fur Ball fundraiser this weekend

Watermelon Mountain Ranch, New Mexico’s largest no-kill animal shelter located in Rio Rancho, is once again hosting it biggest annual fundraiser this weekend.

Saturday, the shelter invites the public to its 21st annual Fur Ball, a gala that celebrates the great animals of the Southwest. The event is Saturday from 6-10 p.m. at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North.

The Fur Ball also gives a chance for Watermelon Mountain to recognize its sponsors, donors and supporters and, most importantly, to raise funds for the animals and all of programs of Watermelon Mountain Ranch.

Attendees will enjoy dinner and dancing along with Steve Stucker’s Pet Parade of fairy tale-themed costumed pets vying for the Best in Show award.

Live and silent auctions will showcase more than 150 items in categories including art, jewelry, home decor and more.

As a Network Partner of Best Friends Animal Society (Utah), Watermelon Mountain Ranch’s lifesaving efforts reach far beyond Rio Rancho and Albuquerque’s city limits. Mercy Missions has taken Watermelon Mountain all over the southwest United States this year rescuing dogs and cats on euthanasia lists at high-kill shelters.

General admission tickets are $150.