Planning is under way for the fourth annual “Puttin’ on the Ritz: Top Hat and Tails” benefit gala hosted by Animal Advocates of Moore County.

The event will take place Monday, Dec. 6, from 5:30-9:00 p.m. at the Fair Barn in Pinehurst and features black and white adoptable animals, food and wine, a silent auction and the traditional red carpet pet parade.

Proceeds from the event will support the work of Animal Advocates in our community. Animal Advocates programs include financial assistance with spay/neuter, surgery and emergency care, lost and found animal program, foster care program, emergency phone line, adoption events and the feral cat sanctuary.

“Top Hat and Tails is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a fun night out while supporting a good cause — the care and protection of animals in our community,” says a spokesperson.

Animal Advocates, a nonprofit organization, was founded in 2000 by Maureen Burke-Horansky and now boasts more than 1,200 members. AAMC is committed to all aspects of animal welfare, including spay/neuter, animal cruelty and animal rescue, accompanied by community education and diligence toward humane legislation.

Tickets to the Top Hat and Tails event are $40 in advance and can be purchased by calling Florrie Southerland at (910) 315-6070 or the Animal Advocates office at (910) 944-5098. Tax-deductible sponsorships are also available to underwrite the event and range from $250 to $2,500.