The chips may have been down for some, but the spirits were high Aug. 31 as Boothbay Harbor Country Club transformed into a casino for the second year as part of Action for Animals Maine’s (AFAM) annual summer fundraiser. Over 150 attendees enjoyed a full spread catered by the country club, a popcorn bar donated by Coastal Maine Popcorn, and game tables run by Casino Productions.  

AFAM Events Director Betsy Wildes said it was an “incredible” night. Wildes extended an extra special thanks to the country club and  Paul and Giselaine Coulombe for making it possible. 

The goal of the event was to support the local nonprofit’s mission to help Lincoln County residents pay for emergency veterinary care they otherwise could not afford. 

“Our belief is to do whatever we can to keep pet owners and pets together, “ said Wildes. This help is also significant for the region’s elderly population, who often have a fixed income and rely on their animals for companionship, she explained.  

Losing a pet due to lack of resources isn't something that sits right with Wildes, or AFAM founder Giselle Armstrong, who started the organization in 2019 to help an owner extend the life of his dog, Butterball, after he was diagnosed with cancer. Since then, AFAM has helped about 100 animals. Those in need of help can receive up to $500 per year for expenses, which is dispersed directly to the veterinary clinic.  

In addition to financial assistance, AFAM also donates pet food and cat litter to local food pantries. Any donated medicines, such as flea or tick treatments, are given to vet clinics.  

“Everybody deserves a pet, and everyone deserves a healthy pet," Wildes said.