United We Stand. Sit. Stay.

That was the universal theme of Saturday’s Bowl-4-Animal Rescue Fundraiser at Country Lanes in Farmington Hills. Animal lovers came in high-spirited droves to bowl, bid on epic prizes and join in a camaraderie sprinkled with visiting dogs needing homes.

The sixth annual benefit for the Friends For the Dearborn Animal Shelter and Michigan Animal Adoption Network was hosted by Aleta Sill and Michelle Mullen, co-owners of Aleta Sill’s Bowling World inside Country Lanes. As the most successful event yet, it netted more than $20,000, with all profits split between the two charities to keep needy animals alive, healthy and neutered.

As a result of their tireless work, Kelle Sisung, development director for FFDAS, announced that Livonia residents Sill and Mullen received the 2011 Big Heart Award from the shelter.

Of the silver heart necklace with a dog’s paw cut in the center, Sisung said, “This is a way to keep our friends’ hearts close to our hearts.”

Mullen, 46, tearfully described her reaction, “I’m speechless. It made me cry and I am deeply humbled by it.”

Bowling hall-of-famer Sill, 48, attributes successful fundraisers to word of mouth among animal lovers. Mullen agreed.

“Animals need our help," Mullen said. "I am the last person on the planet who feels comfortable asking anyone for anything. Then I realize that the animals cannot ask.”

For more info or year-round acceptance of donations, contact Aleta Sill’s Bowling World at 248-615-9060.