FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2008

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CRITTER FEST

MARYVILLE, TN – The Blount County Humane Society is holding the second annual Smoky Mountain Critter Fest on Sunday June 1, 2008. The event will take place at Pearson Springs Park from 11am to 5pm, and will benefit the Blount County Humane Society’s No Kill Animal Shelter Effort. A rain date is set for June 8th.

Many animal rescue organizations will be present including the Smoky Mountain St. Bernard Rescue, featuring “Panda”, the dog who was in the news last month in a well publicized animal abuse situation. Now adopted to a loving home, Panda is the poster dog for animal abuse, rescue, and adoption. Other rescue groups include East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue, Small Breed Rescue of East Tennessee, Southeast Bloodhound Rescue and Horse Haven. These organizations, as well as the Blount County Humane Society will feature adoptable pets in need of forever homes.

The day is packed with activities including a children’s game area, face painting, pony rides, agility classes, pet contests, and live music. Seven “Silly Pet Contests” will begin at 1pm, and the live music will feature “Chris and Candi”, “Johnny Seaton” and the “Southern Touch Quartet”. A Blessing of the Animals will take place at 3pm. Informational booths include PPAW (low cost spay/neuter clinic), ETAPPS (Professional Pet Sitters), exotic birds, the Elephant Sanctuary, and a wildlife rehabilitator. The Humane Society will host a large silent auction, and you can also visit vendors selling pet health supplies, dog treats, and pet portraits. The Bloodhound Search and Rescue Team will have a demonstration at 1230pm.

Food, drinks, and desserts will be provided all day by the Blount County Humane Society, Silver Spoon/The American Café, and Smoky Mountain Kettle Korn.

A complete schedule of the day’s activities and exhibits can be found at www.blountcountyhumanesociety.org. Vendors, volunteers, and Rescue Groups who are interested in participating, or if you have an item to donate to the Silent Auction, please call Terri Lane at 865-607-5116.

Admission is free, but donations to the Humane Society will be appreciated at the gate. Some activities will have a small charge.