Country Music Star Carrie Underwood Speaks At Tulsa's Fur Ball

A fundraiser for local animal support benefited several animal rescue programs and there was even a special guest in attendance.

Country music star Carrie Underwood stopped by because an animal shelter she supports received an award.

"Fur Ball" is the name of the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals' 10th annual fundraiser gala. More than 300 people attended the event.

"It's a sold out event and we're happy," the alliance's Jamee Suarez said.

Underwood, a Checotah native, cheered on the charity she supports in her hometown. OAA recognized Happy Paws Animal Shelter for its spay-neuter and adoption programs.

The Western-themed event helped raise more than $100,000 to fund OAA's programs, which help fight pet overpopulation, rescue animals and keep partnerships with other animal welfare organizations across the state.

Organizers said Saturday's fundraiser not only will help their cause, but also will honor animal shelters for their work.

"It takes a lot of money to help animals; it's really expensive," Suarez said.

Some donors even brought their dogs. Platty the rescue dog, who has a national following for the growth on his snout, was recognized by OAA.

Dog owner Gerald Pace brought a Labrador he rescued from the side of a Louisiana highway.

"Beauty is very well behaved and actually enjoys coming to these events," Pace said.

Supporter Pamela Reed said programs like OAA need support to save animals in need of care.

"There's so many dogs that are needing out there, and I just wanna do what I can to help, this is a good way to help the animals," Reed said.

She said people should never turn away the chance to adopt a dog or cat needing a new home.

"You're saving a life, and they're not throw away dogs. There's a lot of awesome dogs in shelters," Reed said.

OAA also recognized Dogville Daycare & Boarding for helping older and special needs animals.