LEE COUNTY, Fla. – Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue is hosting its 2nd annual poker run to raise money to save dogs who have suffered the worst neglect and abuse.

The rescue is caring for ten dogs, but said two of their most recent rescues have already cost more than $20,000 in medical treatment.

Rescue events coordinator Samantha Kellum and founder Victoria Paschke said one of those dogs is a five-month-old puppy named Bow-Tie, who was found in Clewiston.

“Bow-Tie got hit by a car, but that was the least of his worries. Parvo almost killed him,” Kellum said.

“It was the owner’s negligence,” Paschke added.

“Luckily he got hit by a car, because that’s what saved him,” Kellum said.

Bow-Tie’s shoulder bone is broken, but cannot be repaired until his Parvo is cleansed and his body grows stronger. Parvo is a highly contagious and deadly virus.

Another dog rescued by Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue is Lenny. He also has Parvo, which led to neurological issues.

You can support both dogs in their recovery by attending Rescue’s 2nd Annual Poker Run on January 29th. Registration begins at Stu’s Motorcycles at 10:00 a.m. and the event itself begins at 11:00 a.m. From Stu’s, you stop at four other participating local businesses and collect colored poker chips at each.

“Next, we will announce what the totals of the red, white, blue and black chips mean. The red chip could mean four points, so if you had four, you would have 16 points. So whatever the greater number, would win the $500 cash prize,” Kellum said.

She said whoever has the lowest number will win $100. It’s $20 per motorcycle or car to participate. Additional passengers cost $10 each. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, gift card prizes and more. The organizers say that by coming to this event you are supporting a local dog rescue and local businesses.

For more information, click here.