The nonprofit organization, Advocates Saving Adoptable Pets, raised more than $6,000 for helping sick, injured and homeless animals at their 2nd annual art auction at St. Mary Conference Center on Thursday night.

The sold-out event attracted 250 people who enjoyed a reception and dinner, a buy-it-now auction for fall décor and a live art auction featuring work from 42 local artists.

The money raised will go toward ASAP efforts to cover expenses for sick and injured animals at Huntington Cabell Wayne Animal Shelter to go to the veterinarian, an opportunity they would otherwise not have. The organization also find families to foster recovering the animals until they have a chance to place them in a permanent home.

So far in 2015, ASAP has taken more than 70 dogs to the vet and been responsible for more than 300 adoptions.

ASAP Treasurer, Joanie Ward Smith, says rescuing animals is a mission that members do not take lightly.

“These dogs would have been euthanized at the shelter had we not gotten to them,” Smith said. “We pay for all of their expenses, whether it’s tests, medications, x-rays, surgeries, we pay for all of that. We find a foster family where they can recover in a safe and clean environment. Then we work very hard to find loving and forever homes for these dogs and cats.”

Animal welfare is especially important to ASAP volunteer, Polly Bartee, who took up art just to contribute to this year’s auction.

“This is my first go-around making art,” Bartee said. “I came to the first event last year and thought, ‘I could come up with something.’ I’m creative, but I don’t paint, per se, so I decided to something more abstract with wood because I wanted to contribute.”

“People don’t really know the need that animals have,” Bartee added. “What we see from just going into the shelter and seeing how many animals are brought in per day. There’s just a huge need for this.”

ASAP supporter, Michele Endicott, has rescued animals for more than 25 years. Endicott said she came out to support the group’s efforts as well as local women.

“I am so excited that these ladies have started a group that recognizes the need in this community for us to unite and take care of the homeless and sick animals as a group,” Endicott said. “This is a great way for the community to come spend some money on excellent art from local artists. I’ve bought a print of a boxer to give to my step-daughter. I’m hoping to bid on even more.”

ASAP hosts adoption events every weekend in spring, summer and fall. ASAP’s next event is scheduled for Saturday, September 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Classic Jewelry & Loan in Barboursville.

Rob Engle can be contacted at [email protected].