Paw party

To celebrate the first birthday of Sydney Anderson, her parents, Ben and Casey Anderson, put a little bark in her birthday bash Feb. 8.

Instead of presents, the family requested donations for the Humane Society of Manatee County for her wildlife-themed birthday party at their East County home. Guests brought almost $500 worth of supplies.

“Sydney has such a love for animals already at such a young age that it seemed fitting to give to the humane society,” says Casey Anderson, co-owner of the Sea Star Cafe in Lakewood Ranch.

The family dropped off items Feb. 9, and Sydney played with a puppy and a cat.

“She had a great time,” Casey Anderson says.