Third Annual Tail-A-Thon Fundraiser Tonight

NBC Palm Springs is joining forces with the Palm Springs Animal Shelter for the annual Tail-A-Thon tonight, Thursday, December 11th, from 4 to 7 p.m. The live broadcast fundraiser will air from both the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and the Desert Wildlife Center, supporting the thousands of animals these facilities care for each year.

"We get over 3,000 animals here a year," said Executive Director Dan Rossi, who joined NBC Palm Springs this morning for Pet of the Week. The funds raised go toward medical care for shelter pets and rehabilitation for injured wildlife at the Desert Wildlife Center.

This year's Tail-A-Thon features an exciting announcement: world-renowned fragrance designer Geir Ness, a part-time Palm Springs resident and shelter volunteer, will match donations dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000. "Every donation means something to us," Rossi emphasized during this morning's segment.

The fundraiser supports animals like Bedford, an adorable 5-week-old tuxedo kitten who charmed viewers this morning with his fluffy coat and distinctive markings. Bedford came to the shelter as a stray and has already been neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated. Also featured were Gemma, a smart 4-year-old boxer mix who knows commands and is great on a leash, and Tristan, a beautiful 3-year-old Shepherd/Chow mix with high energy who would thrive with an experienced owner.

Tune in tonight for a behind-the-scenes look at daily operations at both the shelter and wildlife center, and help make a difference for local animals in need.