Cobb Reporter

First Lady Marty Kemp is gearing up for the fifth annual Pet Adoption Day at the Governor's Mansion in Georgia. The event, which aims to find forever homes for over 100 pets in need, showcases Kemp's dedication to promoting pet adoption and supporting local animal shelters.

"Come meet more than 100 animals in need of forever homes and consider taking one (or more!) home with you," said Kemp.

The Pet Adoption Day and Georgia Grown Festival, organized by Georgia's First Lady, is a celebration of pet adoption and agriculture in Georgia. Over the years, the event has successfully facilitated the adoption of more than 100 dogs, seven cats, and even a hamster.

In addition to promoting pet adoption, the event offers visitors a chance to explore and learn about agriculture in Georgia. It serves as a platform for local farmers and businesses to showcase their Georgia Grown products.

The fifth annual Pet Adoption Day and Georgia Grown Festival will take place on October 21st at the governor's mansion. The event is expected to draw a large crowd of animal lovers and supporters of local shelters.

First Lady Kemp has taken to social media to encourage participation in the event. In a Facebook post, she wrote, "Join us next Saturday for Pet Adoption Day at the Governor’s Mansion! You will meet plenty of sweet animals looking for their forever family while enjoying a variety of @GeorgiaGrown products on display!"

She also shared on Instagram, "Many of our sponsoring organizations are offering special rates and coverage for their animals at Adoption Day, and I’d love to see you there!"

The need for pet adoption in Georgia is significant. According to Atlanta First News, 174,560 pets entered shelters in Georgia in 2022 alone, as reported by the Best Friends Animal Society.

Pet adoption not only gives homeless animals a second chance at a loving home but also helps free up shelter space for more rescues. It ensures that animals receive necessary medical care and vaccinations while supporting local shelters over breeding facilities. Adoption also encourages responsible pet acquisition within the community, as highlighted by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

However, there is still work to be done. Best Friends Animal Society reports that in 2022, 15,647 dogs and cats were killed in animal shelters across Georgia. They offer various ways to contribute to the care and well-being of animals, including monthly giving as a Guardian Angel, honoring a beloved pet through memorials or gift-giving, fundraising, sponsoring an animal, or making a vehicle donation.

As the fifth annual Pet Adoption Day approaches, First Lady Marty Kemp hopes to raise awareness about the importance of pet adoption and encourage more people to open their hearts and homes to animals in need. With over 100 pets looking for their forever families, the event promises to be a heartwarming opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these animals.