Houndstooth Ball rescues animals 'One Tail at a Time'

The 15^th annual Houndstooth Ball attracted more than 500 animal-loving supporters, many with their pups, to Morgan Manufacturing on March 18. Benefiting One Tail at a Time (OTAT), a no-kill animal rescue organization, the event celebrated 15 years of supporting ongoing and new initiatives such as its ISO House, a quarantine location in Logan Square that creates a safe, transitional space for sick or injured dogs from Chicago shelters.

During the lively evening, partygoers enjoyed a whiskey tasting presented by Green Briar and made memories in a variety of animal-related photo opps. Professional doodlers created hand-drawn portraits of pets and an onsite SPAW helped them relax. The silent and live auctions featured over 100 items, including a unique OTAT “patchwork” quilt.

The program was emceed by Elliott Bambrough (of Chicago’s Best), who was joined by Heather Owen, OTAT executive director. Bambrough spoke about being inspired by the dedication of the organization's volunteers and how well it functioned as a family.

Owen thanked the crowd and sponsors and shared the nonprofit's ongoing success story. An all-vegan buffet was served and, on every table, were photos with short stories of OTAT's adoption successes.

The event raised over $300,000 which will fund the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of dogs, kittens, and bunnies in need. The funds will also help support adopters and grow community outreach, including humane education and assistance for disadvantaged and low-income families.

Rescued animals are housed in both foster homes and at OTAT's Bucktown adoption center location. (Photos by Jeremy Lawson, onetail.org)