Benji, the mixed-breed terrier who appeared on the big screen in the movie of the same name, may be a superstar, but that’s not her only talent. Benji’s long eyelashes and cute demeanor also allow her to lend a paw to people who need companions and to furry friends in shelters who need homes.

“Life can be ruff [sic], even for a superstar like me. I know what it is like to be alone in a shelter. Who knows where I’d be now if I hadn’t been adopted,” woofs the charismatic canine, who will soon make two appearances in San Diego to help raise funds for Pets Are Wonderful Support, a volunteer-driven, non-profit affectionately known as P.A.W.S. The organization’s San Diego chapter is hosting two events, on separate dates, for its annual Fiesta del P.A.W.S., to help those living with HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening illnesses keep and care for their companion animals.

“The unconditional love of a companion animal is a priceless gift for the many thousands in our community who are facing the challenges of living under these conditions. Their animal companions provide love, friendship and, for many, the reason to continue on with their lives,” P.A.W.S.’ mission statement says.

“During the past year, P.A.W.S. clients have grown more than 40 percent. This is the most important fund-raiser ever because of the increase in clients,” said Lynn Pittman, P.A.W.S. public relations and media chair.

Clients attest to the organization’s value and impact on their lives.

“P.A.W.S. San Diego County has allowed me to keep what I believe is the largest part of me besides God and what ultimately saves my life from depression and loneliness,” said Shawn Miles, in a letter to the organization explaining how P.A.W.S. volunteers’ hard work has transformed her life.

“How do I begin to say thank you to an organization who has given my animals and me so much. My three dogs each have a unique way of helping me cope,” Miles said.

For the last five years, Miles has struggled with walking because of a rare disorder called Thalamic Pain Syndrome. “I now live with constant pain. Since I have adopted Mr. Bentley, who was one hour from being euthanized at the pound, my life has changed.” Miles said the dog came into her home very grateful for anything she did with him. “A few weeks later, I saw that not only had Mr. Bentley grown strong and healthy, but I too saw a change in myself physically.”

Miles isn’t P.A.W.S.’ only happy client. In 1998, the organization, founded in 1993 by a group of concerned North County residents who recognized the benefit animals have on the life of those living with HIV/AIDS, expanded its services to include the low-income, elderly and the disabled.

“We currently serve more than 550 clients and assist with 737 pets,” explained Clark Burnett, executive director of the organization. He said that P.A.W.S’ increase in clients is due much to the word-of-mouth satisfaction of clients, and the organization hopes to be able to grow to help even more people in need. “We currently have a waiting list for those who want to receive our services. Fiesta del P.A.W.S. will help to raise much needed funds for the organization’s $250,000 budget.”

The organization’s services provide cat and dog food, kitty litter, pet walking and veterinary assistance. “Currently each animal is allotted up to $250 per calendar year in veterinary assistance and, while that may not be a lot, it means the world for many of our clients who can’t afford to provide such care for their beloved pets,” Clark said.

To help raise those funds, Fiesta del P.A.W.S.’ Pedigree Premier Party will take place Sunday, May 20, at a private location on top of Mt. Soledad in La Jolla. “What better way to kick off the party season than atop Mt. Soledad with amazing food, libations and wonderful entertainment. This is a very private and intimate party with the most beautiful views in town. Guests will be able to mix and mingle with other animal lovers, while meeting some great celebrities too,” Pittman said.

But four-legged friends aren’t the only celebrities who are helping P.A.W.S.’ cause. Actress Cassandra Peterson, better known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, who is also an animal lover, will be at the Pedigree Premier Party.

But the party is just the beginning of the festivities. P.A.W.S. will also host the Fiesta Garden Party, at the historic estate of Jim Urbina, Jeff Johnston and Robert Hunt. The estate was built in the 1920s next to Balboa Park, and resembles the architecture in the movie The Great Gatsby, Pittman said. “This year, actor Dick Van Patten, who is the founder of Natural Balance Pet Food, will be there and is being honored for his contribution to animals and to P.A.W.S.,” she said.

Guests will be free to stroll through the estate and enjoy a variety of international foods and a bar by Tommy Bahama. There also will be a silent auction featuring tickets to the “Ellen DeGeneres Show,” along with other features. “But what’s so amazing is that this is probably one of the only parties in town that animal lovers can also bring man’s best friend to. And best of all, they can all have their picture taken with Benji and receive her ‘paw-tograph,’” Pittman quipped.

P.A.W.S.’ Pedigree Premier Party will take place on Sunday, May 20, from 3 to 6 p.m. The Fiesta Garden Party is Sunday, June 3, from 3 to 7 p.m. VIP admission for both parties is $200. Admission to the Fiesta Garden Party is $75.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.pawssdc.org.