Inaugural "Meals for Mutts" Fundraiser Rallies Blairsville Community, Raising Over $2500 for Union County Animals

Rhonda Wells VP of Safe Pet Project accepts a Meals for Mutts donation from Lauren Ross Chef Owner of Sweet Pea's Eatery.

Press Release

BLAIRSVILLE, GA — Safe Pet Project and the Lucky Dog Restaurant Group are celebrating an excellent turnout following the inaugural Blairsville Meals for Mutts dine-to-donate event on Wednesday, July 22nd. Community members turned out in full force, enjoying local dining while raising over $2500 to fund vital animal welfare programs in Union County.

Inspired by the Atlanta Humane Society’s wildly successful "Tables for Tails,” the one-day event brought together 12 local eateries—ranging from casual lunch spots to fine dining establishments—each pledging a portion of their day's proceeds directly to Safe Pet Project. Without needing vouchers or special codes, patrons simply dined out, ordered takeout, or picked up office lunches to make an immediate impact.

"The community spirit on Wednesday was contagious," said Melissa Sherwood, Event Coordinator at The Flying Trout and Copperhead Lodge. "Our tables were buzzing, our team was energized, and getting a visit from Darcey, one of the foster animals benefiting from the event, made it extra special. Meals for Mutts was a big win for local businesses and pets alike, and we can’t wait for next year."

The event’s partner, Lucky Dog Restaurant Group, helped with restaurant recruitment and community outreach for the initiative. "Honestly, seeing everyone come out to eat and support Safe Pet Project was just awesome," said Jen Rushing, Vice President at Lucky Dog Restaurant Group. "Blairsville has a huge heart, especially when it comes to standing behind small businesses and animals in need. This partnership was a dream for our team, and we’re already looking forward to the next one."

Every dollar raised from Meals for Mutts directly sustains Safe Pet Project’s hands-on, volunteer-driven work in the county. "Meals for Mutts provided a vital boost to our core operating budget," said Mike Boyer, Treasurer of Safe Pet Project. "Every dollar raised stays right here in Union County funding life-saving veterinary care for foster pets, free microchipping, community cat TNR, and critical support for pet owners in need. It’s dollar-for-dollar local impact." 

Licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture since December 2022, Safe Pet Project is a 501(c)(3) volunteer-driven, no-kill organization. Safe Pet Project provides resources, services, and community education while reducing pressure on local shelters through its foster animal care network.

Participating restaurants for the 2026 event included Lucky's Taqueria & Cantina, Teppanyaki Time, Sweet Pea's Downtown Eatery, Pizza Belly, Blairsville Social, Michaelee's Italian Life Caffe, Sammies Subs, Blairsville Restaurant Grits & Greens, Expedition Joe Coffee Company, The Flying Trout, Blairsville Huddle House, and Skyline Wings & Things.

To learn more about Safe Pet Project or to support ongoing animal welfare efforts in Blairsville, visit safepetproject.org.