Two large dogs sit patiently in their crates at the entrance of the exhibit hall. A one-year-old Rottweiler dons a stylish green bandana that Petco Love volunteers hopes will help catch the eye of a forever family.
Russell, who weighs nearly 100 pounds, weighed only 38 pounds when he was discovered. In the North Texas animal cruelty case, 50 dogs were found kenneled in crates inches deep in feces and urine. The Human Society brought Russell and his buddy to the Mega Adoption Event on April 5 with hopes of having them adopted.
“Sadly, animal cruelty and neglect is something we see on a daily basis,” said Cassie Davidson, senior director of communications for the Humane Society of North Texas, adding that shelters also see a lot of well-intentioned pet owners that, due to a variety of variables, can’t properly take care of an animal, which often results in prolonged captivity, extreme confinement, or malnutrition.
The event, in partnership with NBC, Clear the Shelters, and Telemundo 39, brought in dogs, cats, and bunnies available for adoption.
“Bringing together more than 1,000 pets from over 25 North Texas shelters under one roof, this event was a powerful opportunity for our community to find loving companions while making a life-changing impact for pets in need,” Davidson said.
“The Texas Mega Adoption Event is a testament to the power of community and compassion in giving pets the loving homes they deserve,” added Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love.
“At Petco Love, we are proud to partner with local shelters, rescues, and organizations to bring together thousands of pets and prospective pet parents. This event serves as a reminder that every pet deserves a chance at a better life, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless pets across Texas,” she said.
Debra Blang, a volunteer at the adoption event, has fostered many dogs. “These kind, selfless creatures deserve to be loved and cared for,” Blang said. “They don’t ask for much, and they’re willing to return the love tenfold.”
At the exit doors to the exhibit hall, Brandon Powell, who was finishing his rounds and heading out when he locked eyes with 9-month-old Emerald. “I knew instantly that she was coming home with me. You can’t change a dog’s past, but you can rewrite their future,” said Powell, as the Doberman nuzzled into Powell’s underarm.
Across the hall, Everly, age 3, pleaded with her parents to allow her to bring home a puppy. Mom and Dad told their daughter that they would think about it.
Everly’s smile said it all as she cuddled 3-month-old Bindi while mom signed the adoption papers. Everly’s dad sat on the floor next to canine tripod, Dillinger, and animal rescue volunteer, Jennifer Abrams. The United States veteran pulled up his pant leg, revealing to the pup how he, too, had lost a limb.
“You just never know who’s the one being rescued,” Abrams said.
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