Jeter and Sabrina exchange wedding bow-vows

By Roger Gavan WARWICK — On Sunday, Feb. 12, Fetch Bar and Grill was filled to capacity with guests who had come to witness the marriage of Jeter and Sabrina.

To some the wedding was long overdo since the couple have been living together for 14 years. However, they have a good excuse.

Jeter and Sabrina are both 14-year old Jack Russell Terriers who were abandoned in the front pen of the Warwick Valley Humane Society’s Animal Shelter last September.

Animal Shelter staff members also discovered a note with their names and ages and a plea to find them a home together because their owner was homeless and living in a car with them.

Another letter followed explaining that they have been together their whole lives like a married couple.

A 14-year engagement Suzyn Barron, president of the Warwick Valley Humane Society, explained that Jeter and Sabrina have been sharing a kennel while at the shelter and go out for walks together. And both are in good shape for seniors because they are young at heart.

As guests swarmed forward for the best possible view and an opportunity for a photo,

Jeter, wearing tails in more ways than one, nervously awaited the arrival of his bride to be.

Meanwhile Miss “Bambi” Foster, a Yellow Lab from the shelter, had been given the dual role of flower girl and “collar” bearer.

Pam Shultz, D.V.M., who gives her time and medical care to the shelter’s homeless pets, and her husband, Gabe Wardwell, served as the matron of honor and best man.

Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard was the wedding officiant.

Finally the moment arrived. Escorted down the aisle to the sound of Wagner’s Bridal Chorus, more commonly known as “Here comes the bride,” Sabrina, wearing a white satin dress with a tulle overlay and matching veil, joined the groom.

After exchanging their bow vows and collars, the mayor pronounced them husband and wife.

During the ceremony, Barron, who is also a professional singer, sang “One Paw, One Heart, “ based on the music and lyrics of “One Hand, One Heart,” from the Broadway musical West Side Story.

A humans only reception followed with champaign and appetizers courtesy of Fetch Bar and Grill.

“Jeter and Sabrina have delayed their honeymoon in the hopes of finding a new and lasting home,” said Barron. “They offer their heartfelt thanks to all those who donated to make their special day possible.”

Contributions from many Thanks to the generosity of local businesses and individuals, the wedding raised more $5,000 for the Humane Society along with an extra $2,000 contribution, proceeds from Fetch’s “Doghouse Table,” that are periodically donated to charities.

“Jeter and Sabrina, together with the Warwick Valley Humane Society,” said Barron, “would like to thank their hosts Adam and Britt Powers, owners of Fetch Bar & Grill and their incredible staff along with everyone who contributed to the success of the event. The outpouring of support for this senior couple and for all of our homeless pets was outstanding and so greatly appreciated.”

Those who helped support the event included Newhard, pro bono ceremony officiant; Newhards, The Home Source for wedding favors; ShopRite of Warwick for the wedding cake; Rader’s Florist, Fran’s Hallmark for balloons; Dirty Dog Mobile Grooming for pre-nuptial spa treatments, photographer John Walker, Walter Ross of Regal Homes and Properties for invitations and banner and everyone who attended as well as those who sent their contribution gifts commemorating the event.

“In lieu of wedding gifts,” said Barron, “the couple requests that donations be made to the Warwick Valley Humane Society for the Riley Fund for senior homeless pets at PO Box 61, Warwick, NY 10990.”