One sign of a strong organization is found in the traditions that are held in high regard.  Foothills Humane Society (FHS) has a tradition that is well known in the Foothills—the annual Animal Fair.  This is a fundraising event that many people anticipate each spring.  Recently the co-chairpersons of this event for a number of years announced that they would be passing the torch and retire from their volunteer leadership roles.  Bertie Phayer and Susan Beardslee have chaired the event from 2006 until just completing the 2013 event.

The Animal Fair began in 2001 when Betsy Miner brought the idea to the FHS Board of Directors.  Miner lived in Pennsylvania before moving to the Foothills area. In her previous hometown she worked with the local humane society.  There she saw her first Animal Fair, a hugely successful fundraising event. The draw was the unique and interesting animals that were brought together for a spring garden party. Local supporters would come to see the animals, have a lovely meal and enjoy the approaching springtime. Miner and her husband, Dee, volunteered to host the very first FHS Animal Fair, which took place at their farm in 2002.  They oversaw this event for the next three years.