PAWS Prints Exhibit & Benefit

by Christina Shaffer

Animal cruelty, unwanted pets and crowded shelters don't just exist in that tear-jerking ASPCA commercial with Sarah McLachlan. Plenty of local pets are waiting to be adopted, and the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society is hoping that cute pictures of the critters will persuade you to take one home — or at least donate to the cause.

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Animal rescue is a lifelong pursuit for Philadelphia artists Ruth Savitz and Christopher Woods. They'll be selling their color animal prints — of polar bears playing, dogs begging for attention, a child connecting with a hippo — to raise money for PAWS, which saves about 30,000 animals each year. Having rescued two cats herself, including one that was going to be euthanized simply because it had a respiratory virus, Savitz is dedicated to raising awareness of abandoned animals and endangered species. "I'm hoping people will be attracted by the photos and will become more aware of the plight of shelter animals," she says. "I think the more people learn about animals, the more they will become concerned with making sure that all pets have good homes."

On Tuesday, guests can enjoy Italian cuisine and vegetarian food at the exhibit's opening reception at Le Virtu, a restaurant that donates a portion of its beverage proceeds to PAWS. Can't make it? You can view and purchase the artwork through May 4 — or take an animal home anytime.

Opening reception Tue., April 7, 5:30-8 p.m., free; through May 4, $15, Le Virtu, 1927 E. Passyunk Ave., 215-271-5626, phillypawsprints.org.