“Raise the Woof” Pet Adoption Awareness Event Coming to New Kent County

Dog lovers in New Kent County are in for a treat later this month as local shelters come together to host the “Raise the Woof” pet adoption awareness event. Set to take place on April 20 at Pine Fork Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., this event is a collaboration between the New Kent Sheriff’s Office’s Animal Protection Unit and the county’s economic development and parks and recreation departments.

Sgt. Chad Majette of the Sheriff’s Office described the event as a “big community event that focuses on animals and homeless shelter animals.” With animal shelters in Virginia currently overflowing, the event aims to showcase pets in need of loving homes from various shelters including the New Kent Animal Shelter, the Regional Animal Shelter in King William County, and more.

In addition to promoting pet adoption, the event will also raise funds for the New Kent Animal Welfare Fund, which helps cover medical expenses and other needs for animals taken in by the New Kent animal control officers. Last year, the fund contributed to a remarkable 98% live release rate from the shelter.

Attendees can look forward to a day filled with fun activities such as food trucks, costume contests, a hot dog eating contest for dogs, games, music, pet photography, a petting zoo, and even ice cream trucks for both humans and dogs. Majette expressed his hopes for a well-attended event that spreads awareness about helping homeless animals.

Board chair Thomas Evelyn praised the event, stating, “That sounds like a great event. I’m sure it will be well attended.” With a promise of a fun and engaging community event, “Raise the Woof” is sure to be a hit among dog lovers and animal enthusiasts in New Kent and beyond.