Duluth a Part of Animal Rescue Fair

Hundreds if not thousands of humans stopped by 's covered arena in Alpharetta Sunday, June 12, for the annual Animal Rescue Fair, which works to educate people about the need for pet adoption and to encourage them to take a new pet home.

The goal was to adopt out 200 or more pets during the five-hour fair, said Penne Crews, coordinator of the fair. She personally saw 15 to 20 animals adopted out despite being busy keeping things running smoothly.

Angel was one of those dogs who found a new home. Rebecca and Janie Levergood and their mother were taking the puppy home to join other pets, including frogs. The girls said Angel was adopted just five minutes before the Walk of Fame, set up to honor those families who have rescued and adopted animals.

More than 55 exhibitors, including humane societies, breed-specific rescue organizations, rehabilitation groups and wildlife rehabilitation centers set up booths under the covered arena, which helped keep the animals and humans cool in the burning sun and 90-plus degree day. Another 27 or so vendors also set up booths, offering samples and information to the animal lovers.

Duluth-based organizations participating in the fair included Planned PEThood of Georgia and the Canine Adoption Rescue League (CARL).

Save the Horses has presented the Animal Rescue Fair for 11 years, inviting pet rescue organizations from around the region and attracting visitors from throughout the Southeast.