By Valerie Milano
Hollywood, CA (The Hollywood Times) 9/4/25 – Last night, Thursday, September 4, 2025, the Taglyan Cultural Complex in Los Angeles transformed into a heartfelt spectacle of celebration and compassion for the annual Waggy Awards, otherwise known as the pet-lovers’ Oscars. Hosted by the Tailwaggers Foundation, the evening united animal-rescue champions, celebrities, and true animal lovers in a glamour-infused fundraiser with a purpose.
From 5:30 to 9:00 PM, the Taglyan Complex buzzed with excitement, guests mingled over vegan appetizers and an all-vegan buffet, browsed a bustling silent auction, and applauded the evening’s standout contributors to animal welfare.
Honoring the Heroes
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Diane Warren and The Diane Warren Foundation received heartfelt recognition for decades of backing animal welfare—from grants to rescues, to an extraordinary sanctuary in Malibu.
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Pasadena Humane Society, lauded for their swift, compassionate response during the Easton and LA fires, stood honored as frontline heroes.
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Kacey (Kasey) Montoya—Emmy-winning KTLA meteorologist and founder of Fix’n Fidos—was celebrated not only for her warm hosting but also for her foundation’s vital work providing spay/neuter services and emergency vet support to low-income pet owners.
The night sparkled with special guests including Maggie Lawson, Lana Parrilla, and Dr. Kwane Stewart, who brought charisma and heartfelt testimony to the stage.
Lana Parrilla, present as a presenter and cherished figure in past Waggy Awards, graced the event, adding extra star power to the compassionate cause.
Highlights: Fun Meets Philanthropy
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The silent auction featured irresistible items—think pet-themed treasures, exclusive celebrity experiences like a Barry Manilow meet-and-greet, and even a dreamy retreat at a Francis Ford Coppola resort in Belize.
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The emphasis on animal welfare was everywhere, not just in honorees, but in the evening’s all-vegan fare and kind-hearted energy.
Founded in 2013 by Todd Warner, the Tailwaggers Foundation has made the Waggy Awards a cherished annual tradition—this year marking its 7th edition. Worth highlighting: a remarkable 89 cents of every dollar raised goes directly to animal rescue efforts, thanks to an all-volunteer board.
As Todd put it, “We think of the Waggy Awards as a furry little version of the Oscars,” a fitting metaphor for an evening that blends showbiz glamour with warm-hearted advocacy.
What stood out most about last night’s Waggy Awards wasn’t just the star-studded crowd or the lavish decorations, it was the unshakeable mission: celebrating and uplifting those tirelessly dedicated to helping animals in need. Diane Warren, Pasadena Humane, Fix’n Fidos, and so many others remind us that compassion makes the world, and the awards—shine.
