For Immediate release      For more information:

August 11, 2009       John Van Zante

858-756-4117 x 335     

Orphaned Dog is Orphan Annie’s, “Sandy” beginning Thursday at the Starlight 

Rancho Santa Fe, CA – When San Diego actress Hannah Kornfeld takes the stage for the Starlight Theater’s production of, “Annie” starting this Thursday, August 13, she won’t be the only, “orphan” in the cast. The Starlight, working with Helen Woodward Animal Center and San Diego Pet Training, will feature an honest to goodness orphaned dog in the role of, “Sandy.” 

“Just as the Starlight began their search for a dog to play Sandy Helen Woodward Animal Center received a dog that was perfect for the part,” says HWAC spokesman John Van Zante. “When Sandy was transferred to us from a rescue group in Los Angeles we saw right away that he was going to need extended socialization and training before he could be adopted. This coincided perfectly with the production of Annie.”   

Rob Kuty, Helen Woodward Animal Center’s trainer and owner of San Diego Pet Training, began teaching Sandy basic obedience and socialization. “Sandy’s a very smart dog. He loves to obey directions in exchange for praise. His training for, ‘Annie’ supports his regular training. When he’s available for adoption he’ll be a great dog.”   

Starlight Artistic Director Carlos Mendoza emphasizes that the Starlight remains a major force in the community after 63 years. “We are a part of the community including families and their pets. We’re proud to join paws with Helen Woodward Animal Center and San Diego Pet Training to bring attention to orphaned animals.

Sandy joins, “Benji” as one of San Diego’s rags-to-riches dogs. North County residents Joe and Kathleen Camp adopted the small, scruffy dog from an animal shelter and named it, “Benji.” Since then the Camps have adopted four Benji’s resulting in five movies.   

During his training Sandy has been living in foster care. His, “foster mom” is strongly considering adopting him. When the final curtain drops on the San Diego production of, “Annie,” Sandy will retire from show business to live happily ever after on “Easy Street.”  

  “Annie” will be presented at 7:30 PM on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday August 13 - 30. Tickets can be purchased online at starlighttheater.org.  

To meet orphaned dogs and cats that need loving families today (not “Tomorrow”) call 858-756-4117 or visit Helen Woodward Animal Center at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe.