'Slice to Meet You': PAWS Chicago's pizza fundraiser returns for shelter pets

CHICAGO - Chicago's animal shelters are facing an unprecedented surge in pet intake, with stray dog admissions alone climbing by six percent in the past year and a staggering 22 percent rise since 2021.

To cater to the growing shelter population, PAWS Chicago is reviving a quintessentially Chicago fundraiser, set to kick off Tuesday.

In a celebration of unique culinary combinations, renowned chefs Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard and Hot Doug's Doug Sohn will craft their signature pizzas.

Exclusive to Piece Pizza, a new pizza will debut monthly. Each purchase of these specially curated pizzas will contribute $10 to PAWS Chicago. 

Adding an adorable touch, the pizza boxes will showcase photos of adoptable pets as part of the "Slice to Meet You" campaign — a tempting indulgence for a good cause.

The inaugural offering this month features Hot Doug's pizza, spotlighting andouille sausage, smoked chicken and a flavorful Creole sauce. Following in February, Rick Bayless presents his pizza, with March reserved for a surprise creation by Stephanie Izard.

Last year, this fundraiser generated over $30,000 in donations for PAWS Chicago, a testament to the community's support for this worthy cause.