BUFFALO, N.Y. - Some diners grabbing a bite to eat Tuesday spent a little more money for their meal, but it was all to help out hundreds of four-legged friends.

About 28 restaurants throughout Erie County took part in "The Big Chew," an event to raise money for the SPCA.

A portion of a diner's bill, ranging anywhere from 10 to 25 percent, will be donated to the SPCA's programs and services.

Executive Director of the SPCA Barbara Carr said every little bit helps for the care of the animals.

"We get animals in who are ill all the time and this really helps with the medical care of the animals,” said Carr. “We're handling probably 8,000 animals a year, and easily half of those come to us ill or injured."

If you're interested in adopting a pet the Erie County SPCA has to offer, head to yourspca.org.