The Shell Factory and Nature Park’s Doggy Heaven Dog Park will be the spot for an inaugural Pet Adoption Day on Sunday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Our first annual pet adoption day is a natural event for the Shell Factory since the entire property is dog friendly,” said Shell Factory Owner Tom Cronin. “We also hope the event will promote greater usage of Doggie Heaven, a free dog park with a complete agility course and dog jumping pool.”

“Pet adoption day is part of our community outreach program,” said Shell Factory Marketing Director Rick Tupper. “That is to provide the community with free events that support local businesses and in this case local rescue groups.”

Currently a number of pet rescue organizations are scheduled to attend, such as Florida Cocker Spaniel Rescue, the Southwest Florida German Shepherd Rescue, the Florida Boxer Rescue and more.

There also will be a variety of vendors ranging from kennels and pet bakeries to pet suppliers of all types.

“This event will be fun for the whole family,” said one organizer, Peggy Kay of the Southwest Florida Wiener Dog Club. “There will be food, music and pet supply vendors. People can bring their own pet or bring home a lucky dog, cat or bird that is looking for a new family.”

People also will be able to have their dogs try out some pool activities with Suncoast Dock Dogs or sign up the smaller dogs in a race on the wiener dog race track.

“All pets must be up to date with shots appropriate for its age and species. It’s to keep them all safe and healthy.”

She is championing the cause of rescue pets.

“Unfortunately, some people think that rescue pets are throw aways. That’s absolutely not the case. My husband and I have rescued three beautiful miniature dachshunds. We adopted two brothers -Botsey and Bailey – over two years ago and recently a cute little 18-month-old female, Candy. They are part of our family now and totally spoiled. That’s why we’re doing this, to help the local rescue agencies find loving homes for as many as possible.”

“Rescues will range from German shepherds, greyhounds, boxers, cocker spaniels, cats and birds and more. Pet supply vendors include Pet Supermarket, Chihuahualand and More, Nature’s Select, Cats by Colby, Organic Jacks and Nemahs Nibbles to name a few. There will be pet services available such as nail clippings, photos, massage and Good Canine Citizenship testing.

Food and live music will also make for a fun afternoon, said Kay. Capt’n Fishbones, Dog Bones Cafe, and the Shell Factory Retail Store and Nature Park will also be open.

For more information on this event call Tupper at 560-9522 or email rick.tupper@shellfactory.com.