Revenge with a Cause: Valentine's Day Fundraisers that Let You Name Animals After Your Ex

Animal shelters and zoos are offering darkly humorous Valentine's Day fundraisers where people can name animals after their exes. Popular campaigns involve naming rodents or cockroaches, with the proceeds aiding animal care. Participants find catharsis and amusement in these events, raising significant funds for wildlife centers.

Across the United States, animal shelters and zoos are giving people a novel way to process breakup pain this Valentine's Day: humorously naming animals after their ex-lovers. These fundraisers, which range from naming feral cats to mealworms, are gaining traction and raising funds for animal care.

The campaigns offer a bittersweet form of therapy for those whose relationships didn't pan out. For instance, Teri Scott from Washington relished the opportunity to name a frozen rat after her ex-husband, benefiting a bird rehabilitation center in Alaska. Her contribution was among many, as the center raised over $18,000 to support its activities.

Priced at various levels, including $10 for naming mealworms, these campaigns offer participants comedic relief and a chance to 'gift' themselves while supporting a good cause. The initiative highlights a creative approach to fundraising, merging humor with healing.

(With inputs from agencies.)