For families with pets, their beloved dog or cat is just like a member of the family. Without them, much joy, activity and companionship is lost. Residents and staff at Waltonwood Cary Parkway recognize the importance of animals and are doing all they can to make sure that they get the chance to find their forever homes.

They are working with Durham-based Hope Animal Rescue (HAR) to host a dog adoption event for the volunteer-run, nonprofit organization on Saturday, April 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. immediately following their annual Easter Egg Hunt which begins at 10 a.m. outside the front entrance of the senior living community (750 SW Cary Parkway).

The public is invited to attend the egg hunt and adoption event to meet dogs of all ages and breeds, enter to win a gift basket from Waltonwood Cary Parkway and learn more about the work Hope Animal Rescue does in the Triangle area. In anticipation of the event, the community is also preparing by hand-making braided dog toys out of fabric strips and dog treats for the adoptable dogs to enjoy as they await their forever homes.

HAR currently has nearly 30 dogs available for adoption, and they are all fostered in the homes of volunteers. They are a volunteer-run organization, and they rely on the public to donate funds to cover expenses for the group. HAR also cares for many dogs who have medical issues such as heartworms, and fundraises to cover medical costs for these animals, with adoption fees going back into their accounts to help cover these expenses as well.

HAR was established in 2013, and since its inception has saved over 1,000 dogs – about 300 a year on average. Visitors interested in adopting dogs will be asked to fill out an application and schedule a home visit. Adoption fees are $250 for healthy dogs, and $100 for senior dogs and dogs with medical needs. Dogs are current on vaccinations and are spayed or neutered as well as microchipped.

www.waltonwood.com or call 919-275-0983