MOUNT VERNON — The practice putting green at Vernon View Golf Course in Mount Vernon went to the dogs on Friday, but that was a good thing.
Putts for Mutts raised $300 for the Knox County Dog Shelter.
Cooper Lowe, a junior at Fredericktown High School, came up with the idea as a part of his National Honor Society project. Lowe, who is on the Freddies golf team, has a 10-year-old Golden Retriever named Charlie.
Charlie was the inspiration for the project.
“We would love to donate $1,000, it may be closer to $250 but anything will help, right?” Lowe said.
Knox County Dog Warden Brian Biggerstaff agreed.
“We appreciate the donation,” Biggerstaff said. “It will go into the general fund and will help with the care of the shelter.”
Andy Marsell won the event and took home a Lab putter. Pam Phillips claimed second place and a dozen Titleist Pro V1 golf balls. Rounding out the top three was Kyle Henthorn, who took home a $20 Golf Galaxy gift card.
Biggerstaff said events like this bode well for the younger generation.
“We have had kids even younger than Cooper make donations to the Shelter,” Biggerstaff said.
The dog warden said donations such as Putts for Mutts help with food, medical expenses and general care of the dogs.
Lowe was pleased with the results of his projects.
“It was incredible to see people’s true passion for dogs,” Lowe said. “Many dog lovers came in just to support this and tell stories about their dogs.
“I am very grateful for all who supported us.”