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Meet Betty, The Stray Dog That Wandered Into The Movie Theater On Betty White’s Birthday

by Humane Pennsylvania

Jan 22, 2022

Humane Pennsylvania rescued a stray puppy found outside the Reading IMAX during showings of ‘Betty White: A Celebration” on Monday, January 17th. The puppy, who was named Betty in honor of the late comedian’s 100th birthday and her strong dedication to animals everywhere, is currently being cared for at the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving.

Reading IMAX Theater was one of two local theater’s that participated in the #BettyWhiteChallenge, where they allowed Humane Pennsylvania to set up a table for donations and merchandise as people attended the exclusive showings of White’s honorary movie. Betty, the puppy, was found running across the street towards the theater. Upon first interactions with her she was soaking wet with very matted fur. She was shaking from the cold and nervousness of her new surroundings. She was immediately taken inside and cared for by Reading IMAX employees and Humane Pennsylvania staff until they could get her safely to the Freedom Center for Animal Life-Saving. Wrapping her in blankets and placing her in a warm, heated car prevented hypothermia from setting in, and as she warmed up and dried off, her sweet personality came through and has captured the staff’s hearts.

“The Betty White Challenge in itself was an incredible campaign that resulted in thousands of dollars being donated to Humane Pennsylvania,” stated Lauren Henderson Pignetti, Humane Pennsylvania’s Director of Development. “And then in the midst of all of that, this stray dog sort of wanders into the movie theater knowing someone would be there to help her. Now that she’s in our care, some of those donations we received on Monday will absolutely be used for her care until she’s ready for adoption.”

Betty, the two-year-old Terrier mix, is currently undergoing evaluation and wellness services to ensure that she is all set to find her forever home. The shelter staff expect Betty to be ready for adoption by the end of January.

Adopters wishing to provide a loving home for Betty are encouraged to complete an Adoption Interest Form and check-in regularly to see when Betty becomes available for adoption at HumanePA.org. All potential adopters are required to go through Humane Pennsylvania’s diligent adoption screening process (approval is not guaranteed).

Humane Pennsylvania is an innovative national leader in animal welfare, with adoption centers, accredited non-profit veterinary hospitals, emergency animal rescue services, community pet assistance programs, an animal-focused charitable foundation, and a free, public dog park.

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