Benefit to raise awareness of abused or misplaced animals

AUSTINTOWN — A local bodybuilder is having a benefit to raise awareness about misplaced and abused animals.

Karen Miller, founder of the Cardinal Classic bodybuilding show in Youngstown and four-time bodybuilding world title holder, will be honoring Dana Landis and Diane Neal, owners of 4 Paws Kennel in Washingtonville, for their work rescuing and housing animals in need.

“These women who I want to recognize in the area have volunteered time and money to rescuing animals that have been misplaced,” Miller said.

Miller, who graduated from Youngstown State University and attended high school at Beaver Local, said the economy has affected homeowners’ ability to pay mortgages, causing many pets to be abandoned in homes, but the work Neal and Landis do prevents this from happening.

She said the benefit is just one way for her to show the pair how much their efforts are appreciated in the Valley.

Neal, of Canfield, has been rescuing animals for 26 years.

She said she’s happy to be recognized for her efforts but wants everyone to know it’s a labor of love.

“I think it’s very nice to be honored, but I’m happier to sell the calendars to raise money to put toward getting these animals help,” Neal said. “People call me crazy, but I feel blessed to take care of [animals,] and that’s all that’s important to me.”

The benefit, Calendars 4 Canines, is 7 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 11, at Barry Dyngles Restaurant and Pub, 1601 S. Raccoon Road in Austintown.