Fantasy Ball Supports Fall River Animal Shelter

People who want to support animals in need will have a chance to do so as they step into a story of their own at an upcoming event, “The Legends and Lore Fantasy Ball,” which supports Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River.

The event, to be held at the Venus de Milo in Swansea, promises a night of fantasy starting at 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 2.

“We were looking for a fresh, unique fundraiser,” Shelter Director Arianna Silva said. “Since events like this haven’t been held in our area, we decided to create one ourselves.”

What to Expect at the Legends and Lore Fantasy Ball

Guests can expect a four-course dinner and dancing. There will be tarot readers and temporary tattoo artists. Silva said to expect magical surprises during an evening meant to feel like a journey into another world.

As the shelter director, Silva’s role involves supporting staff, working with board members, and coordinating with veterinarians and animal control officers.

“My priority is ensuring the animals in our care are safe and receive the medical attention they need,” she said. “Ultimately, we want them to find loving homes, while also making sure our team has the structure and support to do their jobs effectively.”

Why Animals Are Being Surrendered More Often

People give up their animals for a number of reasons. A 2024 analysis of owner relinquishment records from a U.S. open-admission shelter between 2018 and 2023 found that behavioral issues were the most commonly cited reason for surrender in that dataset.

The next most common reasons were housing or moving-related issues, and other challenges such as the inability to care for an animal. Silva explained that not only are these common reasons for people giving up animals, but there also seems to be a drop in the number of people claiming pets that are brought in as lost animals.

Forever Paws Animal Shelter accommodates animals from both the Fall River and New Bedford areas, including those considered hard to adopt, such as senior dogs and cats, and those with medical issues.

How the Community Can Help Forever Paws

While the shelter works hard to ensure every animal is cared for and finds a home, the community also plays an important role.

“There are many ways the community can support animals in need,” Silva said. “One of the most impactful ways to help is by sharing our adoptable animals on social media.”

Silva also shared that attending fundraising events, volunteering, and donating essential items, such as those on the shelter’s Chewy and Amazon wish lists, have a meaningful impact.

The upcoming fantasy ball offers guests a fun-filled evening while directly supporting Forever Paws Animal Shelter.

“What truly makes Forever Paws special is the people behind it,” Silva said. “That includes adopters, fosters, volunteers, board members, and staff who are all united by a single goal: giving animals second chances.”

Costumes inspired by classic characters, villains, dragon riders, fae, or original creations are welcome at The Legends and Lore Fantasy Ball.

“Everyone is invited to join the magic,” Silva said.