An Animal Friends of the Valleys Celebration of Care
Behind every rescued animal is a story of compassion, dedication and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. For nearly four decades, Animal Friends of the Valleys (AFV) has helped write those stories throughout Southwest Riverside County, providing a lifeline for animals in need while facilitating the bond between pets and the families who will love them.
Established in 1987, the nonprofit organization champions humane animal care through education, shelter services and community outreach. Serving Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Wildomar, Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula and beyond. The organization provides refuge for lost, abandoned and homeless animals, facilitates adoptions and works to reunite missing pets with their families.
That dedication extends beyond the shelter. AFV’s Low-Cost Spay/Neuter and Vaccination Clinic, located adjacent to its Wildomar facility on Mission Trail, provides affordable surgeries, vaccinations and microchipping. These essential services help pet owners maintain their animals’ health while addressing pet overpopulation throughout the region.
The scope of AFV’s work is remarkable. During 2025, the organization welcomed approximately 8,600 dogs and cats, along with another 1,000 animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises, reptiles and small farm animals. Nearly 3,500 dogs and cats found loving homes through adoption, marking the organization’s highest adoption numbers to date. These achievements reflect the perseverance of AFV’s staff, volunteers and a community committed to giving animals a second chance.
For those working on the front lines, the rewards are deeply personal. When asked about the most fulfilling aspect of her work, Mo Middleton, Executive Director and Chief Animal Control Officer, reflected on witnessing the transformation of neglected, thrown-away, abandoned and sometimes abused animals. Through patience, affection and compassionate care, these vulnerable creatures gradually regain their trust in people, ultimately finding the security and happiness of loving forever homes.
Recalling one particularly memorable experience, Middleton described rescuing a severely abused dog whose survival was initially uncertain. The individual responsible was arrested and charged, while the dog received the care and rehabilitation necessary to begin a new chapter in a safe, nurturing home. For her, witnessing that transformation and seeing the abuser held accountable made the experience especially meaningful.
Yet the emotional demands of her profession are never far from her heart. “There’s not a day here that doesn’t hurt and at the same time make me happy,” Middleton shared. “And the people that I work with side-by-side, boots to boots, are all here for the same purpose I am.” Her words reflect the empathy, resilience and shared devotion of those working tirelessly on behalf of animals in need.
Celebrating that spirit of generosity, the 2026 Wines for Canines & Kitties Fundraiser Gala returns Saturday, Nov. 7, to Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula. This signature annual gathering brings together animal enthusiasts, business leaders and devoted supporters for an evening of camaraderie, philanthropy and festivities, all benefiting the animals and families AFV serves.
Against the picturesque backdrop of Temecula Wine Country, guests will enjoy a champagne reception and silent auction from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by dinner, the AFV program and a spirited live auction from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Beyond the evening’s entertainment and culinary offerings, the celebration provides an opportunity to recognize the individuals whose compassion and tireless efforts make AFV’s mission possible.
Reflecting on the significance of the fundraiser, Connor Wilson, Event Manager for Animal Friends of the Valleys, shared, “Every day, the incredible people at Animal Friends of the Valleys show up for animals in our community who need them most. They give so much of themselves for these animals. Wines for Canines is our opportunity, just one night a year, to come together as a community and show those dedicated people that we see them, we appreciate them, and we stand behind the work they do. That’s what makes this evening so special.”
Proceeds from Wines for Canines & Kitties help sustain AFV’s shelter operations, veterinary care, adoption services and outreach programs. As the organization celebrates 39 years of service, the gala offers a meaningful reminder that kindness is a shared responsibility. Through adoption, volunteering and generous contributions, supporters help create brighter futures for animals in need. Ticket reservations, sponsorship opportunities and additional event details are provided below.
Wines for Canines & Kitties Fundraiser Gala
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026 | 6–10 p.m.
Wilson Creek Winery
35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591
Individual tickets: $175
Reserved table for 10: $1,750
Animal Friends of the Valleys
33751 Mission Trail, Wildomar, CA 92595
951-674-0618
Event inquiries: event@afv.org
Event Manager Connor Wilson: 951-579-9074
Sponsorship inquiries: Beth Soltysiak
Beth@afv.org | 951-805-6239
Website: www.afv.org
Gala information and tickets: www.afv.org/wines
Event website: www.winesforcanines.com
