Thousands Expected at Animal Rescue Fair in North Fulton

Calling all dog, cat, horse and other animal lovers: the annual Animal Rescue Fair and Pet Adoption event returns to on Sunday, June 12, from noon to 5 p.m.

The event will be held at the covered arena at Wills Park Equestrian Center in Alpharetta. Last year more than 4,000 people attended, making it the largest pet adoption and educational day in Georgia, according to organizers.

Penne Crews heads the organizing group this year, and she said 27 vendors and more than 50 animal rescue and adoption agencies have registered to participate this year.

"It's covered number one, so weather is not a factor," she said.

Rain or blistering sunshine shouldn't matter under the roof of the arena.

The sandy floors are good for animals and people, she said.

"We'll have mustangs, shires, miniature horses, we'll have dogs, cats, I don't even know what else. Last year they had llamas. It's just a feasible place for any type of animal," Crews said. "And of course parking is not a factor. They have ample parking there."

This is the 11th year for the Animal Rescue Fair.

"Save The Horses, who is the host of this from the beginning, is located in Cumming," Crews said.

Attendees, rescue groups and vendors come from the southeastern United States including Georgia, Florida, North and South Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama. People stay and spend time learning about the animals, their needs, available pet products and services in the community. The Atlanta metro area has one of the highest kill rates for pets in shelters, we hope to be able to reach more people, secure more adoptions and spread the word about animals available for adoption reducing the number of animals killed in shelters. It's also about information on animals, vendors, education and entertainment.

PetSmart Charities is a sponsor of the event, with the Purina Pro Plan Rally to Rescue program.

Admission is free, but a donation of a bag of pet food is encouraged (Purina preferred dog, cat, horse) for Daffy's Pet Soup Kitchen and Fido's Soup Kitchen. It provides pet food and supplies to those in need during these difficult economic times. 

Those people who have rescued and adopted animals can participate in the first  Walk of Fame at 2:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to participate with their rescued and adopted animal. Walk will begin inside Wills Park and will circle through the equestrian arena. The first 100 registered animals and their owners will receive a goodie bag.