The Katz Jewish Community Center in Cherry Hill is going to the dogs and cats on Sunday, June 5.
The center will be hosting its first-ever Pet Expo. It will take place on the field behind the JCC along Kresson Road from 9 a.m. to noon and is free and open to the public.
Stephanie Dworkin, event coordinator for the Pet Expo, said the JCC recognized how big of a role pets play in people’s lives, and the JCC wanted to create a community event families could bring their pets to.
“We knew it would be a fun event that the JCC could offer,” Dworkin said. “We’re dedicated to providing social and recreational activities for members of the community. What better way to spend a morning with your family that includes your pet?”
Pets and their owners will have two opportunities to enter contests at the event. One of the contests will be for the best dressed pet. The other contest will be for the pet and owner who look most alike.
The event is much more than just a hangout for pets and their families. The JCC is recruiting a wide variety of pet shelters, rescues, businesses and organizations to participate in the expo. Dworkin said the goal is to make the event educational for people, giving them easy access to pet resources they may need.
“We have a pretty well-rounded group of sponsors,” Dworkin said. “We do have some rescue organizations attending. We’re working with the Voorhees Animal Orphanage. We’re working with another organization that works with cats in the area.”
In addition to local animal organizations, the Cherry Hill Police Department’s K-9 will be at the event performing a demonstration. There will be other activities for community members to check out, including activities for children, various giveaways and free drawings.
The JCC will also be giving back to a local shelter at the event with a collection drive. Attendees are encouraged to bring pet supplies to donate.
“We’re asking for them to bring items such as dog and cat food, cleaning supplies, etc.,” Dworkin said.
All families and their pets are invited to attend. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet or kept in a pet-friendly enclosure such as a carrier or stroller. All attendees with pets will be required to sign a waiver stating the pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations. Community members are cautioned about bringing pets who get nervous in crowds or around other people.
For more information on the expo, visit www.katzjcc.org/pets. Updates on sponsors and activities will be posted on the event’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/events/1692724587647967.
