Pet lovers and their four-legged friends are coming together to help animals in need.
For Paws Rescue is hosting its third annual carnival May 5 at Town Creek Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"This is the first time we have done the carnival somewhere other than our facility," said Rebekah Perry, director of For Paws Rescue.
The event will feature booths from local food vendors, a demonstration from the Southeastern Raptor Center and a silent auction, among other activities.
"We have some fantastic items this year in the auction," Perry said. "We have diamond earrings, a year supply of dog food from Eukanuba, Auburn hats and footballs signed by the coaches and a lot of interesting stuff."
Participants can enter their dog to walk in a pet parade at the carnival for $10.
"The parade will start at 10:30 a.m. and we are having a little course that they walk," Perry said. "You can dress your dog up or not. You will get a goody bag too that has all kinds of fun stuff in it."
A band called No Refunds will provide live entertainment, Perry said.
For Paws Rescue will also have several of its 28 adoptable dogs at the event.
"We won't actually be doing adoptions that day," Perry said. "We don't want anyone to adopt a dog on impulse. People can look at the dogs, fill out an application and go home and think about it. Then we can set up a time to meet with them if they still want to adopt."
Moores Mill Animal Hospital will have a booth at the carnival and has donated a $400 gift certificate to the auction.
"For Paws is a very good organization and an important part of rescue efforts in Lee County," said Glen Puckett, veterinarian and partner at the animal hospital. "We help with a lot of their rescue work as far as spays and neuters, and that is one of the many reasons why we are so supportive of it."
Perry is excited to see how many animal lovers come out to lend their support.
"We raised almost $20,000 last year, and we are hoping to do more than that this year," Perry said. "The rescue depends solely on donations, so that money helps to pay for veterinary care for all our cats and dogs."
Danielle Camizzi, junior in psychology, owns a dog named Derby and knows the importance of finding good homes for animals.
"I think the carnival is a way for people to get outside and have fun with their dogs while raising money for a good cause," Camizzi said.
Perry believes the carnival offers something for everyone.
"We have always had tons of stuff going on," Perry said. "It has always been such a good time at a great event, and the community is fantastic about supporting it. Hopefully this year will be the same, if not better."
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