The Adirondack Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils and Utica Comets, will champion its four-legged fans when it hosts “Pucks 4 Paws,” presented by Benson’s Pet Center. The local, family-owned pet supply store strives to provide animal rescue groups and animal shelters in need with pet food and other pet care essentials at no cost.
Benson’s Pet Center representatives will be on-site at Harding Mazzotti Arena to collect donations during the team’s home game on Sunday, February 1 at 3 p.m. against the Maine Mariners.
Fans are encouraged to donate new pet food, blankets, and toys to help support Benson’s mission of assisting the local rescues and shelters that work tirelessly on behalf of animals in need.
All fans who donate will be entered to win prizes, including New Jersey Devils tickets, Adirondack Thunder tickets, merchandise, and will also receive a complimentary Adirondack Thunder decal.
“For generations, Benson’s Pet Center has remained deeply rooted in the communities it serves. Through partnerships like Pucks 4 Paws, Benson’s Pet Center is proud to contribute to efforts that ensure animals receive proper care, compassion, and support while they wait for their forever families,” said Benson’s Pet Center President Ryan Kramer. “The Pucks 4 Paws game brings together sports fans, animal lovers, and community partners to raise awareness and support for local animal welfare organizations. Benson’s Pet Center is proud to stand alongside the Adirondack Thunder in celebrating compassion, teamwork and the shared goal of helping animals thrive.”
Sunday’s Pucks 4 Paws will also feature an on-ice canine race to determine the fastest skater among participants from Firefly Meadow Service Dogs. A post-game “Puppy Yoga” session featuring the service dogs from Firefly Meadows will be hosted by instructors from the Body Barre studio in Queensbury.
“Benson’s Pet Center’s year-long mission to provide food and supplies to local pet rescues and shelters plays an important role in saving the lives of countless homeless animals and gives them a better chance to find loving homes,” said Adirondack Thunder President Jeff Mead. “Hosting Pucks 4 Paws is a great way for the Thunder, and our fans, to score on the power play for pets in need and the organizations that care for them.”
While Pucks 4 Paws is designed to support our four-legged companions, pets are not allowed entry to Harding Mazzotti arena for the safety of fans and animals who are participating in game-day activities.
Sunday’s contest concludes a three-game weekend homestand for the Thunder at Harding Mazzotti Arena against the Maine Mariners. The front end of the tripleheader on Friday, January 30 at 7 p.m. is Harding Mazzotti Night featuring giveaways of 1,000 Adirondack Thunder Pins and 750 Thunder / Harding Mazzotti t-shirts.
Saturday, January 31 is Law Enforcement Night featuring specially themed law enforcement jerseys, which will be auctioned off following the game. Saturday’s contest will also include a youth hockey jersey giveaway.
Tickets for the upcoming tripleheader, highlighted by Pucks 4 Paws, may be purchased by calling 518-480-3355 or online at ECHLThunder.com