Losing a pair of beloved pets isn’t a pleasant experience. But the loss of guitarist Dave Humphries’ cats Eden, 20, and Eve, 16, inspired him to take action. As a result, he launched “Humphries at Humphrey’s,” a concert benefiting the San Diego Humane Society and Second Chance Rescue for Dogs. “Those cats brought us many years of joy,” Humphries said. “This is a way to remember them, and hopefully help as many other animals as we can.” Eden’s and Eve’s passing and the search for a new feline friend helped cement the idea of an annual event to help animals in shelters. Now in its second year, the daytime event takes place on April 17 with a Beatles and a musical theme of the sixties. On hand will be host DJ Dave Mason of FM105.7 (The Walrus), with performances from Humphries and his group, the Beatles tribute group Help. They will be joined by Fab Moore, The Baja Bugs and indie rockers Wendy Bailey & True Stories. Humphries notes the importance of helping organizations like the Humane Society, particularly in tough economic times. He said the state of the economy is the secondary reason for this concert. Most owners know pets can be expensive. “You see it all the time,” Humphries said. “So many people are losing housing or having to move and they are also having to give up pets. So, in addition to stray animals, more pets are also ending up in shelters. It’s a sad state of affairs. We’re just trying to help any which way we can.” Originally from Durham, England, Humphries relocated to San Diego in 1996, releasing four albums to date. A huge Beatles fan, he has worked with such luminaries as Gordon Waller (Peter & Gordon) and Tony Sheridan, even going so far as to name his new cat “Teddy Boy” after the Paul McCartney song. According to Humphries, the choice of a Beatles-themed event is because the Fab Four was “the greatest group, ever.” But he added that their music truly is universal. “We’re hoping that this is going to be one big party,” Humphries said. “And the Beatles are a group whose music everybody knows, whether it’s musicians who play it or the audience who sings along. We’re raising money for a serious issue, but at this show we want to have fun.” Former Beat Farmers guitarist Joey Harris will be the special guest and will sit in with several of the day’s performers. For him, being part of events like this is important. “It’s a way to stay socially active, helping people instead of just watching the news and complaining that things are wrong,” Harris said. “It’s important to try and help in a situation, roll up your sleeves and get involved. If I was a bricklayer, I could help build a school or something like that. But I’m a singer and guitarist, so I work with that.” While Humphries said he is happy with the outlook for the event, he’s even happier with the support for worthy causes from the local music scene. “It’s amazing at how quick musicians in San Diego are to respond when the call goes out for help,” said the amiable guitarist. “The amount of talent in this town is incredible. That so many are always glad to pitch in at this and other events is a wonderful thing.” It’s possible there will be a third edition in 2012. “It’s too early to tell for sure,” Humphries said. “That’s a long time away, and there is still this year to get through,” Humphries said. “But I’m afraid the need will be there.” Humane Society benefit: 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 17 at Humphrey’s Backstage Lounge, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. $5. For more information, visit www.humphreysbackstagelive.com.