A Dog’s Purpose, a special movie about a special dog, is the feature movie at the Many Community Center on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 7 p.m.

​The movie has a special purpose too. It is the first annual fundraiser at the theater for the Sabine Parish Animal Shelter and the dogs, cats, and other animals housed in the shelter.

​Movie goers are asked to give donations at the theater that the shelter can use to buy needed items and supplies for the animals. They are also asked to bring dog or cat toys, blankets, towels, dog and cat beds, for the animals.

​ However, shelter management requests that people not bring food because the shelter prefers to keep the animals on the same diets they have been placed on.

​The movie itself is free admission. The Town of Many, Mayor Ken Freeman and the Many Cultural District Advisory Committee are the hosts for the movie.

​This heartwarming film is about a devoted dog whodiscovers the meaning of its own existence through the lives of the humans it teaches to laugh and love. Reincarnated as multiple canines over the course of 50 years, the lovable pooch develops an unbreakable bond with a kindred spirit named Ethan. As the boy grows older and comes to a crossroad, the dog once again comes back into his life to remind him of his true self.

​”It’s a beautiful, touching movie about a beloved dog and we are honored to show it to help raise money to help all the animals at the Sabine Shelter,” commented Mary Brocato, chairperson of the Many Cultural District Advisory Committee.

​”We hope lots of folks will come and see this poignant film and will also support the Sabine Animal Shelter. This is a great way to show your support , enjoy a special movie, and give back to our community at the same time, Mayor Ken Freeman said.

​The staff and board members of the Sabine Humane Society, which manages the animal shelter, are excited about the fundraiser and many of them plan to attend the film.

​The shelter has recently building more kennels to house more animals, and the old kennels have been updated so the animals are more comfortable during their stay at the shelter.

​Hopefully, the generous donations of caring citizens give at A Dog’s Purpose will help defray the expenses involved in updating and improving the shelter and make better the lives of these unfortunate animals without homes or families.

​A Dog’s Purpose is rated PG-13 and is especially appealing to children as well as adults. It’s a family movie with a unique storyline and would be an ideal movie for all the family to see together.

​Concessions will be sold at the movie.