NATCHEZ — As the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society focuses on its new animal shelter director, one of the group’s annual fundraisers will take a brief dog nap to prepare for its return next year.

Saturday’s meet-and-greet fundraiser with new animal shelter director Lena McKnight will replace the annual Bark in the Park fundraiser, NACHS board member Susan Callon said.

But have no fear, Bark in the Park will be back bigger and better than before, she said.

“We are gearing up for a super, big, Bark in the Park next year,” Callon said.

One of the group’s fundraising organizers, Callon said board members wanted to focus on McKnight and the excitement McKnight is bringing to the shelter.

“She is doing some wonderful things, and we wanted to show off the new shelter,” Callon said. “We wanted people to come see the new building and meet Lena.”

Saturday’s event, Callon said, gives the humane society time to consider new changes to Bark in the Park and make it even more exciting than ever. The group has discussed possible changes, including moving the event to a cooler time of year, she said.

“We are taking a year off and will be back next with a double-whammy Bark in the Park that everyone will enjoy next year,” she said.