Woodlands artist wins best in show at Houston Dog Show with doghouse

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - The Woodlands artist whose name has become synonymous with fundraising for animal rescue organizations, Leiann Klein, distinguished herself once again, at the Houston World Series of Dog Shows, July 15-19, at NRG Center.

Entering the Designer Doghouse Competition & Silent Auction, Klein won 'best in show' with her “P3 - Pet Portrait Playhouse," by popular vote, and raised the most amount of money to benefit Citizens for Animal Protection.

“Our doghouse won the competition and raised the most money to help homeless animals. It’s all about saving the animals,” said Klein.

Klein does this time and time again. When one pet fundraiser is over, she starts on the next project.

“I made a point to visit the different booths at the Dog Show, introduce myself, and learn about their pet rescue organizations. I want to know what their mission is, if they’re a No-Kill organization, and how I can help them with a fundraiser,” said Klein.

Readers may remember her “30dogs30days” fundraiser which aided Operation Pets Alive in the spring of 2014. (See Local Artist to paint 30 dogs in 30 days.)

Klein is currently in the completion stages of another fundraiser, selling twenty-one pet portraits to benefit a Schnauzer Rescue organization. This wildly successful project raised $2,500!

“The Schnauzer Rescue was surprised with the amount. They thought it would raise about $800,” said Klein.

Another ‘pet’ project is the South Texas Aussie Rescue.

“I have a soft spot in my heart for the South Texas Aussies. That’s who I got my dog, Jasmine, from,” said Klein. "She goes everywhere with me."

Leiann and Jasmine are ambassadors for the South Texas Aussie Rescue. They give presentations and make personal appearances together.

Klein continued to paint for the benefit of local pet charities. She is always looking for pet nonprofits that need financial help, and most of them do, but Klein is careful to ensure that their motives mesh with her concept of doing what’s right for the animals, and that the money is spent appropriately.

“I love the adrenalin rush,” said Klein. “The...we’re all in this together. Let’s see what we can do to raise money for the animals.”

Klein truly demonstrates that it's a dog's life, but at what point in time do you monetize your talent? Klein said she feels fortunate to have her artistic gift, and that she maximized if for many years. After years of accumulating what she wanted from the fruits of her efforts, it was time to give back. That she has.

For more information about Leiann Klein’s philanthropic causes view her facebook page 30 Dogs 30Days.

#30Dogs30Days #OptToAdopt #itsadogslife