Gross challenge raises funds for animals
Ottawa Co. sanctuary conjures idea
8/26/2014Corrected version: Updated to correct the sanctuary‘s business office address.
An Ottawa County animal sanctuary is hoping a gross challenge will help raise funds to care for the 54 dogs and cats there.
The Island Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary in Port Clinton started the “Poop Pickup Challenge” on Saturday.
People are challenged to record themselves picking up dog or cat feces barehanded, post it to social media using the hashtag #pooppickupchallenge, and then challenge their family and friends. Those who can’t stomach the task are asked to donate $25 to the sanctuary.
“We’re just trying to do something to raise funds for the sanctuary,” Nancy Benevento, CEO, said. “Hands can be washed. It’s gross, and it’s not something you do every day.”
Mrs. Benevento, who was the first to complete the task by picking up a pile left by a bullmastiff at the sanctuary, said people should pick up feces only from animals they know are healthy. The hand used should not have any open cuts, nor should children be allowed to participate.
She thought of the idea after seeing the recent viral challenge in support of the ALS Association where people pour buckets of ice water over their heads.
Mrs. Benevento said she tried to come up with something revolting enough that a lot of people would wind up donating in lieu of completing the challenge. “We don’t want you to want to do it,” she said.
She said she knows of several individuals who have either issued the challenge or taken it on themselves.
“It’s mostly people that thought it was hilarious,” Mrs. Benevento said.
Donations can be made online at goo.gl/EP5IJP or mail a check made out to I.S.H.A.S. to the sanctuary’s business office at 2337 S. Linda Drive, Marblehead, OH 43440.