Office of Community Revitalization To Host Heart & Paws Celebration: Rescuing Pets, Strengthening Families Event

Contact: Houston L. Tate (561) 233-5303

The Palm Beach County Office of Community Revitalization (OCR) is proud to host the Heart Paw Celebration - Rescuing Pets, Strengthening Families, a countywide community event taking place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at John Prince Park, Eric Call Pavilion. Hosted in collaboration with Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation, Animal Care & Control, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO), Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, Family Impact Palm Beach County, Dogs Day USA, 518 Pet Market Place, the Palm Beach Obedience Club, and many other dedicated partners, this fun-filled event is free and open to the public.

This family-friendly event is designed to promote pet adoption, health and wellness, and community connection. Families and pet lovers are encouraged to bring both their two-legged and four-legged members for a full day of meaningful activities. All dogs must be on a leash. The celebration will feature a pet adoption event where all adoption fees are waived. New pet parents will receive starter supplies including vaccinations and pet food, thanks to the support of Animal Care & Control. A health and wellness fair, hosted by Family Impact Palm Beach County, will provide valuable resources and services aimed at supporting physical and mental well-being for families in attendance.

The Heart Paw Celebration will also include a Hero Appreciation Zone, where attendees can interact with representatives from PBSO, Fire Rescue, and Parks & Recreation through hands-on activities and photo opportunities. Additional interactive experiences include a Spring Scurry Walk led by the Obedience Training Club of Palm Beach County, paw painting for pets and owners, kite making, doggy yoga, and the Kindness Garden Project where families can paint inspirational rocks to take home or share. Children can also enjoy "Books & Barks," a reading area with free books and therapy dogs, courtesy of the Tweety Foundation. For dog owners looking to further their pet's training, the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen evaluation will also be offered on-site.

This event reflects OCR's commitment to strengthening families and building a more connected, compassionate community. By promoting pet adoption, encouraging wellness, and celebrating the dedication of our local heroes, the Heart Paw Celebration aims to make a lasting, paw-sitive impact. Join us for a joyful day filled with tail wags, smiles, and shared moments of hope and connection. For further details, contact Houston L. Tate, OCR Department Director, at (561) 233-5303 (email: htate@pbc.gov) or Ruth Moguillansky, OCR Manager, at (561) 233-5376 (email: rmoguill@pbc.gov).