Smooches for Pooches 2025

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Each year Merle Norman Cosmetics teams up with the Muskingum County K-9 Adoption Center to raise funds for emergency pet healthcare.

2025 marks the 7th year for the Smooches for Pooches event that gives the public an opportunity to donate to the K-9 Adoption Center and their Griff Fund.

“The event draws in money for the Griff Fund. It’s a fund that was developed because the county could only pay for certain things. This fund goes above and beyond what the county can pay for. So if a dog’s injured this fund allows us to get that dog some care. Any surgery, dental issues, that is above and beyond the normal care of an animal, we were able to do that. And with this event, we’re able to, you know, keep that fund rolling and keep the dogs in the community healthy and safe,” Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Dog Warden Zach Keylor said.

The event allows the small business and the agency to partner together in promoting the products and services they both have to offer as well as in helping to bring recognition and support to a worthwhile cause.

“Anyone can drop in between now and July 31st, and we’ll be having our ‘Most Kissable Lips’ contest and the first one with the best smooch will win a prize. And then they can also donate and with a qualified purchase, they’ll receive their choice of a cosmetic bag with treats for themselves and their dog. Also we’ll be selling t-shirts for $5 dollars and someone will be here Saturday to sell those t-shirts there but if not they’ll be here later,” Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio Owner Sharon Shaner said.

If the Most Kissable Lips contest isn’t for you, Merle Norman’s will be accepting monetary donations or pet items such as: dog treats, dog toys, even blankets or towels. For more information on how you can share in the fun all while supporting a worthy cause, you can visit the Merle Norman Facebook page or stop by the studio located at 1224 Brandywine Boulevard.