Dog Finds Home at POWER Game

PALM SPRINGS, CA — It was “Bark in the Ballpark” Sunday evening when the Palm Springs POWER faced off against the division rival So Cal Athletics at Palm Springs Stadium.  “Bark in the Ballpark” allows dog owners to bring their leashed dogs to the stadium for free every Sunday night throughout the 2011 POWER baseball season.  The POWER is also featuring local non-profit organizations on all Sundays throughout the Coachella Valley, not only raise money for their charity, but allow fans to adopt a pet when they are brought to the stadium.

Fritz was taken home by lucky POWER fan

Nick Baker, starting pitcher for the POWER, stated, “It draws a different crowd and fan base.  It mainly gives fans one more reason to come to a game and support the hometown team.”

Of the crowd of dogs, Fritz, an orphan pet from Living Free – Animal Sanctuary, was in attendance.  Fritz, before he was rescued by Living Free, was detained in an animal shelter because his previous owner housed him in an apartment that did not allow pets.  The landlord found out about this incident and forced the owner to give Fritz away.  The dog, a Pomeranian mix, is six years old and weighs a mere 15 pounds with high energy and excels at performing different tricks.  The POWER had Fritz compete in the best looking dog competition, which was one of the many dog-themed activities in between innings. During the competition, the POWER staff announced the adoptable status to the hundreds of fans in attendance.

Steve Carlson, President and executive Director of Living Free – Animal Sanctuary was ecstatic when Fritz, who was recently groomed, was chosen for the contest.  With the roars of the crowd behind him, Fritz won the competition easily.  Within minutes of the victory, a proud fan went to the Living Free – Animal Sanctuary booth on the third base side and adopted Fritz.

Baker, when asked about his thoughts on Fritz’ adoption, explained, “It’s a great gesture and it shows that there is more to it than just a baseball game.”

In addition, the POWER auctioned off a baseball bat, signed by the entire team, with all the proceeds going to Living Free – Animal Sanctuary.  With almost $150 raised throughout the night, they walked away from the ballpark not only enjoying a 5-2 POWER victory over the So Cal Athletics, but they built a relationship among the fans in the crowd.  If you are interested in adopting a troubled pet or making a donation, please contact Living Free – Animal Sanctuary at (951) 659-4687.  If you have any questions regarding “Bark in the Ballpark,” please contact Mikeal Ball with the Palm Springs POWER baseball club at (760) 778-4487.