(Image contributed)

Dog Ball, the major annual fundraising event for the Greater Huntsville Humane Society, will be held on Feb. 8 at the Von Braun Center, South Hall 2. Cocktail hours to visit the 50 VIPs (very important dogs) will continue from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m.

Lite 96.9 radio personalities John Malone and Bonny O’Brien will emcee the festivities. During dinner at 7:15 p.m., celebrity dogs will “Disco Down with the Hounds” on the red-carpet runway, communications chairperson Jennifer L. Price said.

A silent auction will end at 8 p.m., and guests can bid on painted fire hydrants in a live auction. Silent auction merchandise includes many unique, one-of-a-kind, animal-themed items, along with fine jewelry, VIP pet packages, gourmet dining and weekend getaways.

Closing the evening, a grand prize drawing will identify the winner of two tickets to the 2014 Westminster Dog Show in New York City and a $2,000 Visa card. Paradise Pet Resort and Spa is signature sponsor for the drawing.

Anyone with compassion for homeless animals can make a difference by attending the ball, 2013 event chairperson Tammie Berzett said.

“Supporting this event is one way you can help the humane society continue doing what they do best — taking care of beloved shelter animals that desperately need care, food and shelter until they find their place as part of a loving family,” Berzett said.

The Dog Ball is in its 24th year. “The humane society receives no local, state or federal funding. By attending the ball, not only are you supporting a critical service in our community, but attendees also get to visit with shelter dogs,” Berzett said.

Reservation deadline in Feb. 3.

Dog Ball tickets are available at thedogball.org or by calling 256-881-8081. For grand prize tickets, call 256.881.8081 or buy at the ball.

All proceeds will benefit the humane society. For information, call 256-313-6753, email to price065@gmail.com or visit greaterhuntsvillehumanesociety.org.